Mary Rigas, 95, passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 21, 2021, at her home in Leesburg, Virginia. Mary was born in Athens, Greece to Peter and Eriette Halkias-Sklavakis on July 28, 1925, where she spent her early life.

Mary is preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Rigas. They were married in 1948 and lived happily together. She is survived by her two daughters, Etty Jones and Alice Busch and son-in-law's Greg Jones and Kaj Busch, grandchildren Renee, Jim, Nikki, Matt, Philip, Adam, Luke, Anja, Sharon, sixteen great-grandchildren and her adored caretakers, Fe Arnoco and Arta Bocci.

Mary and James met in Athens when they were both very young. Prior to WWII, Mary joined Olympic Airways in the early days of commercial aviation as a flight attendant while James suited up to fight in the upcoming war. She and James got married shortly after his return. They traveled on their honeymoon through Europe before taking a ship from France to New York City to live in the US. Mary and James lived in the Washington, DC region for the rest of their lives raising their children.

Mary and James enjoyed spending as much time with family as possible; it was the most important thing to them, along with their faith. Mary could be found enjoying time in her garden; or teaching her grandchildren how to cook exceptional Greek food. She loved laughing and dancing and was known for her vitality. In 1993, Mary represented the state of Delaware at the National Senior Games in Baton Rouge, Louisiana where she played singles and doubles tennis.

Visitation will be held on July 17, 2021, from 12pm-2pm followed by a service at 2pm at Colonial Funeral Home, 201 Edwards Ferry Road NE, Leesburg, VA. 20176. Please call the funeral home for additional details at 703-777-1414.