Mary Pond Lynn

Mary Pond Lynn, age 73, passed away at her home in Joppa, MD on June 26, 2010. Born in Springfield, MA she was the daughter of the late Elizabeth Baker Pond and Ralph Pond. Throughout her life Mary devoted herself to God, her family and her community. She was a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst where she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta and served as the fraternity chaplain. While teaching eighth grade English in Connecticut, Mary received her Master's degree from Wesleyan University. Married in February 1967 to John B. Lynn, a graduate of the Coast Guard Academy, she was a devoted Coast Guard wife. The Commandant of the Coast Guard presented her with the Swivel Shot Award for significant contributions including serving as president of the Cleveland Officers Wives Club and the National Council of Coast Guard Wives Clubs. During five active years living on the Coast Guard Support Center Governors Island, New York, she received The Community Service Award and recognition by the Sports Activities Council.

Mary was a faithful community volunteer throughout her life and was especially active in the Girl Scouts, serving in various positions for more than 30 years and receiving numerous awards including the Outstanding Leader Award. She continued as a Girl Scout leader long after her own daughters completed the Gold Award. While living in Fort Washington, MD she was a member of Oxon Hill United Methodist Church where she was a vocal and piano soloist, sang in the choir, played in and directed the bell choirs, and served as an interim music director. Mary was honored by the church and scouts with the rarely awarded Cross and Flame Award in recognition of her exceptional service to youth and the church. During the 2004-2005 period she received the Edgewood (MD) High School Community Service Award for her support of the athletic program directed by her daughter Deborah. Applying the same talents that made her a great wife, mother, teacher, and scout leader, Mary cherished her grandchildren and enjoyed spending time attending their school and sporting events, visiting the beach, reading, playing games and doing crafts with them.

Mrs. Lynn is survived by her husband of 43 years, John B. Lynn (U.S. Coast Guard, Ret.) of Joppa, MD; daughters Sarah Meyers and husband Matt of Chantilly, VA and Deborah Basler and husband Aaron of Belcamp, MD; sisters Nancy Hastings of Orleans, MA and Shirley Tower of Sunderland, MA; and four grandchildren, Rachel, Megan, Brady and Austin. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her son John.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Edgewood High School Booster Club, 2415 Willoughby Beach Road, Edgewood, MD 21040.