Mary Elizabeth Clapsaddle passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of family and friends on November 27, 2023, at Anne Arundel Medical Center after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer.

Mary graduated from Overlea High School in Baltimore County before continuing her studies at Frostburg State University, where she received her bachelor's degree in sociology. Following this achievement, Mary went on to receive a master's degree in regional planning from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill.

Mary had a long and distinguished career in public service. After receiving her master's degree, she spent a few years working for Chatham County in North Carolina, before returning to Maryland. After a brief role at the National Association of Counties, Mary began a long career with the State of Maryland. She had a number of roles, including budget and policy analyst and operating budget manager for the Department of Legislative Services, the staff agency for the Maryland General Assembly; senior policy advisor to the secretary of what is now the Maryland Department of Commerce; and Assistant State Superintendent for Business Services at the Maryland State Department of Education. Following these roles Mary turned her attention to advocacy, first as Director of State Affairs for the Johns Hopkins University and finally on behalf of her alma mater, Frostburg State University.

Mary's passion for service was also reflected in her personal life, where she served on several boards, including Hospice of Chatham County, Anne Arundel County United Way, the Frostburg State University Foundation, where she served as its President, and the University System of Maryland Foundation. She also spent a few years as a tutor for the Anne Arundel County Literacy Council. But her passion for service was not limited to these formal affiliations. Mary spent time over the course of her life mentoring young women professionally. It was always a point of pride to see her young colleagues develop professionally.

Finally, Mary lived a life full of joy, love, and laughter. She was determined not to let cancer define her. During her long battle with cancer, Mary continued to travel with her husband, Chad, and enjoy time with family and friends. She really focused on living, as best as she could for as long as she could. In that way, she was an example and inspiration to those around her.

Mary is survived by her husband, Chad, her sister, Kay, brother, David, and her extended family.

Family and friends may visit on Friday, December 1, 2023, from 4-7 pm at Barranco Severna Park Funeral Home & Cremation Care, P.A., 495 Ritchie Highway, Severna Park, MD 21146.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday December 2, 2023, at 11:00am at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 461 College Parkway Arnold, MD 21012.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in support of Mary E. Clapsaddle Merit Scholarship at Frostburg State University. Contributions may be made payable to FSU Foundation, 101 Braddock Road, Frostburg, MD 21532 or given online at www.frostburg.edu/MaryClapsaddle .