Edna Marie Oliver

Edna Marie (Burroughs) Oliver, 91, of Avenue, MD, passed away on April 26, 2026, at Discovery Commons, surrounded by her loved ones. Edna was born on February 17, 1935, in Helen, MD, to the late George Debracy and Clara Elizabeth (Thompson) Burroughs. She graduated from Margaret Brent High School and shortly after moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked for the American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T). During her time there, she typed phone bills for the White House. While working, she faithfully waited for the love of her life, Joseph Everett Oliver, Sr. (affectionately known as Pappy Joe), as he served overseas in Germany, demonstrating the depth of her devotion. Edna and Joe's romance was truly remarkable, filled with love, patience, laughter, and unwavering commitment. Upon Joe's return, they were married on July 4, 1953, beginning a lifelong partnership that formed the foundation of a strong and loving family. Together, they created a beautiful life and home on River Springs Road, a place known for its warmth, laughter, and togetherness. A devoted family woman, Edna dedicated her life to caring for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, often expressing immense pride in each of them. She also cherished her nephews, nieces, and siblings-in-law. Edna enjoyed boating, fishing, and crabbing with Joe and was the heart of her home- the best mother and grandmother anyone could ask for, always putting others first to ensure that everyone felt loved and welcome. Her home was a gathering place where memories were made and traditions were cherished. Edna was especially known for her cooking, with her homemade crabcakes being legendary-famously regarded as "the best in town", and she generously shared them with family and friends. Meals around her table were always filled with good food, stories, and love. She always kept a homemade cake on the kitchen table, ready to offer a slice to anyone who visited, knowing they would appreciate it. Sweets were her favorite treat, and she would often ask, "Is it sugar-free?" before indulging. She had a passion for plants and flowers; she also enjoyed playing cards (especially pitch), bingo, and treasure hunting at various yard sales and shops for glassware, which she proudly displayed in her china cabinets. Edna was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Everett Oliver, Sr.; her parents; and her siblings: Jeanette Cooksey, Ann Davis, George Burroughs Jr., and Thomas Burroughs. Edna is survived by her children: Joseph Oliver, Jr. (Margie) of Hollywood, MD; Randy Oliver (Bonnie) of Leonardtown, MD; and Patrick Oliver (Norie) of Hollywood, MD. She is also survived by her sister, Shirley Mattingly, of Hollywood, MD; her brother, Wally Burroughs, of Mechanicsville, MD; seven grandchildren: Heather Oliver, Nicky Oliver, Brittany Buzzeo (Jonathan), Chad Oliver (Katey), Michelle Boothe (Kenny), Amanda Davis (John), and Dale Williams (Kayla); and seven great-grandchildren: Paige Oliver, Lexi Boothe, Abby Boothe, Nick Buzzeo, Andrew Buzzeo, Emmalyn Davis, and Everett Sowers. Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing and prayers on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Reverend Timothy Baer at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Angels Catholic Church, located at 21340 Colton Point Road, Avenue, MD 20609. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, 23080 Maddox Road, Bushwood, MD 20618. Pallbearers will include Heather Oliver, Nicky Oliver, Brittany Buzzeo, Chad Oliver, Paige Oliver, and David Burroughs. Honorary pallbearers are Michelle Boothe, Dale Williams, Kell Davis, and Vicki Burroughs. Memorial contributions may be made to the Seventh District Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 7, Avenue, MD 20609, or to Hospice of St. Mary's, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Edna Marie Oliver will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a devoted wife, exceptional mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, and the true heart of her family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.mgfh.com. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home and Cremation Services, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.