Mary Catherine Butler's Obituary
Mary Catherine Butler (Bea), 86, of Annapolis, Maryland died peacefully at home on May 7, 2017.
Born on July 11, 1930 in Fairmont Heights, Maryland to Pearl and Cornelius Butler, she is sister to Ruth Ford and Warren Butler; and sister-in-law, Carol. Siblings James, Cornelius, Charles and Milton Butler predeceased her.
Mary attended Miner Teacher’s College in Washington D. C. and enjoyed a stellar career with the State Department. Her education, command of language and social graces launched her career as Press Secretary to Shirley Temple Black (then Ambassador to Ghana, Africa). She socialized with a parade of celebrities and Statesmen.
While in Ghana, Mary developed a knowledge and respect for the Ghanaian people and culture. Through special interests and interactions, she experienced a warm friendship with a local tribe and was honored with the title of Queen Mother, an honor normally reserved for Ghanaians. This was an honor she treasured.
Knowing the importance of education, Mary mentored her three nieces, Sharon, Sheila and Joann and successfully guided them through obtaining degrees and successful careers. Her influence has reached a third generation of family graduates.
She is survived by a host of relatives and friends
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