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Mary Stevens Gaspar Hood

10/23/1937 - 10/29/2022

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Obituary For Mary Stevens Gaspar Hood

Mary Stevens Gaspar Hood, 85, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2022 surrounded by her loving children. She was born on October 23, 1937 to the late John and Viola Stevens of Asheville, North Carolina. Mary moved to Virginia Beach in the early 1960’s where she met and married William P. Gaspar and had three children shortly thereafter. She was a lifelong resident and loved walking on the beach and listening to the sound of the ocean. Mary later established The Beach Day School at First Presbyterian Church in the 1960’s which is still prominently thriving to this day. At the age of 50 she obtained her teaching degree from Norfolk State University and continued on to teach elementary education for the Virginia Beach City Public Schools at Birdneck Elementary for 13 years until her retirement. Mary was an active and faithful member of First Presbyterian Church for over 50 years and served on several committees with devotion and love, as well as singing in the choir. One of her greatest joys these last few years was listening and attending the Sunday morning worship services virtually every week while listening to the beautiful and inspirational music! The family wishes to give special recognition to her wonderful caregivers of RightAtHome, Va. Beach, LLC. who continued to love and care for her up until her final moments on Earth. Special blessings for caregiver Marcy Mitchell-Douglas who became another cherished member of the family and loved her unconditionally to the end. She was preceded in death by her late husband Joseph W. Hood, Jr. and her two brothers, Jack Stevens and Bob Stevens. Left to cherish her memory are her three surviving children; Susan Contos (John), of Va.Beach, Sarah Dimmock (Jake) of Seattle, WA., John W. Gaspar of Va.Beach, and their father William P. Gaspar of Seattle, WA. Her grandchildren; Amanda Preston (Chris) of Florida, with two great-grandchildren, Ellie and Kallie, also of Florida; Afton Gaspar of Va.Beach. Also; Gwendolyn Steinbacher and Joe Hood III of Va. A Celebration of Life will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Virginia Beach, 300 36th Street, Virginia Beach, Va. 23451 at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 28, 2022 with a reception immediately following in the church’s fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her memory to one of the following: The Beach Day School, First Presbyterian Church; The Music Department of First Presbyterian Church- 300 36th Street, Va. Beach, Va., 23451; The First Colonial Inn- Associate Appreciation Fund- 845 First Colonial Road, Va. Beach, Va., 23451

FLY HIGH AMONGST THE ANGELS - DEAR SWEET MAMA!

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Tributes

  • Serene Lily Basket

    Imogene R Stevens sent Serene Lily Basket for Mary Stevens Gaspar Hood - 11/14/2022

    With loving sympathy from the Jack Stevens family: Cissie, Brent, Wyatt and Scott

  • 5 TREES

    The Jack Stevens family planted 5 trees in memory of Mary Stevens Gaspar Hood . - 11/14/2022

Condolences

  • 11/13/2022

    Ray Nuszkiewicz

    Susan, Sarah and John, I have the fondest memories of your Mom when I first came to the Beach with the Navy in 1981. My family came over to visit Aunt Izzy. I thought to myself that day, what a wonderful Lady, filled with so much kindness. May she rest in peace.

  • 11/12/2022

    Sharon Fox Gamble

    As a child, I remember that she was a very kind, caring, calm, gentle soul. I have nothing but fond memories.

  • 11/09/2022

    RalphJames

    Mrs Hood I know you are safely home. I am better for having known you and worse for your leaving. Amen Ralph James

  • 11/09/2022

    Kenneth Jones

    My dearest Susan, Sarah and forever brother John, your mother was the sweetest kindest most beautiful woman ever. I love her and you. Kenny

  • 11/08/2022

    Stephanie Ulmer

    Mary was such a sweet and caring person. No matter what she was doing or going through she always had a big smile on her face. She loved her children unconditionally and were so very proud of them. Whenever she spoke about her children, she would just completely light up. It was a privilege and honor to be one of Mary's caregivers at the Assisted Living Community. She has and will always have a special place in my heart. Rest in peace Mary. -Stephanie Ulmer

  • 11/08/2022

    Lisa

    "Those we love don't go away, they walk beside u everyday, unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and always dear." What a pleasure it was to have met Ms. Hood, it was always a warm smile with a warm embrace. Susan and Sarah, you two are absolutely amazing. My heart and prayers go out to you all and your families. What a special person Ms. Hood was and forever will be.

  • 11/08/2022

    Abigail Ho

    As a caregiver to her from The assisted living facility where she resided in, Mary hood was always one of the sweetest people to be around. So glad I was able to be apart of your life. I'll miss you! Fly high!!

  • 11/08/2022

    Jake Dimmock

    I'm certain Mary would believe her biggest accomplishment was raising three caring, giving and faithful children. Each ministering to Mary when She needed them the most. They were there by her side helping her navigate through these last few years. Her beloved children surrounded her as her light was fading and Mary knew she'd done well. ...of all the things Mary was, She was a good mother. That is reflected by the children she left behind. Good job, well done. Rest In Peace Sweet Mary, a life well lived.

  • 11/08/2022

    Moe McChesney

    always loved your mom hope she is flying hi now

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