Obituary of Marcia F. Rachy

Marcia Faith Rachy, 73, died August 25, 2014, at her home in Arlington, Virginia. Born in Rockville, Connecticut, she was the daughter of the late Joseph L. and Violet V. Rachy, of West Hartford, Connecticut. Although she had lived for many years in Virginia and loved her home here, she spoke of Connecticut lovingly all her life. Ms. Rachy graduated in 1963 from the University of Connecticut where she was a member of Phi Mu fraternity. She enjoyed playing the violin in the University orchestra. She obtained a Juris Doctor in 1966 from the Marshall Wythe School of Law at the College of William and Mary in Virginia at a time when female law students were few in number. Those who know her can only imagine the spirited discussions she must have instigated in class. She retired from the federal government in 1997 after 32 years of service. Ms. Rachy was a woman of great faith. She was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church in Arlington, Virginia. She was previously a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church where she served on the pastoral council. In retirement, she was active in the Northern Virginia Phi Mu Alumnae Chapter and in fundraising for the College of William and Mary. She served as class agent for many years, established and raised funds for scholarships, and was a continuous member of the Dean’s Council. She was a steadfast supporter of numerous local arts and choral organizations. Most of her efforts in life were dedicated to helping others on a one to one basis. Her strength of character and willingness to help others was known and cherished by people in a wide variety of religious, artistic, educational and social circles. Survivors include Sandra L. Utter of Arlington, Virginia, Barbara L. Relva of Florida, and many other friends. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, September 3, at 10:30 a.m., at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 1910 N. Randolph Street, Arlington, Virginia 22207. A graveside service will be held at the Rachy family plot at Fairview Park Cemetery in West Hartford, Connecticut, on Friday, September 5, at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Marshall Wythe School of Law Foundation, P. O. Box 3527, Williamsburg, Virginia 23187-3527, with the memo line noted “Rachy Scholarship”.