Mary Allen Fones

Mary Allen Fones, 76, of Hollywood, MD, passed away at Tidal Health in Salisbury, MD, on March 15, 2026. Born on March 25, 1949, Mary was a lifelong resident of Hollywood and a deeply cherished presence in her community— a woman whose warmth, humor, and love left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew her. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Kirk Russell Fones, who passed away on December 3, 2015, as well as her stepfather Ben Wilkinson and brother, Butch Emory. Their memories remained close to her heart every day. She is survived by her loving mother, Virginia Wilkinson, of Hollywood, MD, her devoted children: Karen Mistretta (Stevie) of Hollywood, MD, Maggie Murphy (Audie) of Great Mills, MD, and Michelle Kohut (Ricky), of California, MD. She also leaves behind her beloved siblings, Mickey Emory (Bobbi), Cherrie Fearns (Joe), Parran Wilkinson (Krista), and Chris Clark. Mary’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She was a proud grandmother to 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Each one held a special place in her heart, and she found endless happiness in watching her family grow and thrive. For 33 years, Mary worked as the Kitchen Supervisor at Placid Harbor, where she became known not only for her incredible work ethic and dedication, but also for the laughter she brought into the workplace. Her days were filled with joking, teasing, and sharing laughs with coworkers who quickly became lifelong friends. She had a way of making even the busiest shifts feel lighter, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of working beside her. Mary was also an active and proud member of the Hollywood Moose Lodge, a place where she truly came alive. Whether she was surrounded by friends, sharing stories, or enjoying a laugh, she made every moment memorable. She loved her nights out, often with a martini, margarita, or her favorite, an ice-cold Michelob Ultra—in hand, always ready to toast to life, friendship, and family. Known for her vibrant spirit, Mary was truly the life of the party. She loved gathering with friends, enjoying trips to the casino, and most of all, spending treasured time at the beach with her grandchildren. Those beach trips were filled with laughter, sunshine, lazy rivers, and memories that will be held close forever. Mary had a true gift in the kitchen. Cooking was one of the many ways she showed her love, and she poured her heart into every dish she made. She loved sharing an appetizer, trying new foods, and dining with family—never passing up a plate of nachos, one of her favorites. Her husband, Kirk Russell Fones, was the love of her life. The two shared over 50 years of marriage. Together, they built a life rooted in love, loyalty, and countless shared memories. Even after his passing, that love remained a guiding light in her life. In her quieter moments, Mary enjoyed working on puzzles and simply being surrounded by the people she loved most. Above all else, she loved fiercely and unconditionally, and her family was the center of her world. Mary will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her legacy of love, laughter, strength, and unforgettable moments will live on through her family and friends, and all who were lucky enough to know her. Pallbearers will be Wyatt Redman, Michael Sullivan, Kirk Prinsen, Tony Mistretta, Matthew Griffith, Larry “Bear” Johnson, and Scottie Bean. Services will be officiated by Father Keith Burney of St. Michael’s Catholic Church and Father Ray Schmidt of St. John’s Catholic Church. Family and friends are invited to celebrate and honor Mary’s life at a public viewing on Monday, March 23, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with prayers recited at 7:00 PM, at Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM, at St. John’s Catholic Church, Hollywood, MD. Interment will follow at Joy Chapel Cemetery, Hollywood, MD. A repass will be held at the Hollywood Fire Department immediately following the services, where family and friends are welcome to gather, share stories, and to support one another—just as Mary would have wanted. Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made to the Patuxent Moose Lodge in honor of Mary Fones. 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.