Obituary of Mary Davis Allin

Mary Davis Allin died September 4, 2013 in Arlington, Virginia. She was born January 6, 1924 in Fort Sill, Oklahoma to Erwin Cobia West Davis and Emilie Longmire Bolton. On February 15, 1947, she married George R. Allin, Jr. She was a loving, caring, and nurturing mother to six children: George R. Allin, III, Thomas B. Allin, Margaret A. Brown, Catherine A. Deddo, Nancy A. Doty, and Susan A. Riedinger; grandmother of twelve, and great grandmother of one. The family is planning a late December 2013 memorial service in McLean, Virginia. Mary graduated first in her class from Western High School in 1940, and from George Washington University in 1944, with a BA degree, majoring in French Literature. She was elected to Phi Beta Kappa and a member of Pi Beta Phi. Mary’s primary calling in life was to be a mother; and she was, encouraging her children to learn, grow, develop, and take new paths in life. She worked as an Administrative Assistant at George Washington University’s Department of Education, and as a secretary at two Arlington churches, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and Church of the Covenant. She was a volunteer at Offender Aid and Restoration (OARA), as well as a volunteer chaplain. In addition, she volunteered for Meals on Wheels through St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church (Arlington), where she also on the vestry. Mary loved animals, cared for dogs, and especially loved cats. She also believed very strongly in the mission of Doctors Without Borders. The family encourages donations in her name to the Arlington Animal Welfare League or Doctors Without Borders. Mary lived her life with grace; she was classy, smart, and funny. Her laugh made those around her feel comfortable and welcome. We will miss her.