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Departed Alumnae
This page pays tribute to those Doves who are no longer with us.
The Executive Board and Committee Members of WHSAA, Inc. would like to express their sincere condolences to the families of these Departed Alumnae.
If you know of a Westernite who has passed away, and would like to share it with other alumnae, please submit verifiable information (copy of obituary or funeral program) to webmistress@whsaainc.org. If you have a photograph, you are welcome to send that as well. You may pay tribute to a friend or loved one regardless of how many years have gone by.
Louise Miller Woods Class of 1953
Louise Miller Woods Class of 1953
Louise Miller Woods Class of 1953
Louise Miller Woods Class of 1953
Louise Miller Woods Class of 1953
Submitted by daughter, Lynn Blackwood (nee Barron) Class of 1979
Gloria Johnson, Class of 1965
Submitted by Marian (Smith) Tutt
Class of 1965
Jumary B. (Gillis) West, Class of 1965
Submitted by Marian (Smith) Tutt
Class of 1965
Dr. Gayle L. (Martin) Jackson, CLASS OF 1968
Dr. Gayle L. (Martin) Jackson, CLASS OF 1968
Dr. Gayle L. (Martin) Jackson, CLASS OF 1968
Dr. Gayle L. (Martin) Jackson, CLASS OF 1968
Dr. Gayle L. (Martin) Jackson, CLASS OF 1968
Submitted by Marian (Smith) Tutt, class of 1965
Doris D. (Scheeler) Rhinehart, CLASS OF 1952
Doris D. (Scheeler) Rhinehart, CLASS OF 1952
Doris D. (Scheeler) Rhinehart, CLASS OF 1952
Submitted by Craig Rhinehart (son)
Alexandria V. Browne, Class of 1992
Doris D. (Scheeler) Rhinehart, CLASS OF 1952
Doris D. (Scheeler) Rhinehart, CLASS OF 1952
Submitted by Pamela Ingram
In memory of our Sister Doves (Class of 1972) who've gained their wings. We remember you:
🕊💔Dawn Adams
🕊💔Gail [Farrington] Adams
🕊💔Joanna Blum
🕊💔Mandy Bynum
🕊💔 Olivia Cherry
🕊💔Stephanie Church
🕊💔Darice Claude
🕊💔Evelyn Cutler
🕊💔Brenda Gamber
🕊💔Shelley Gordon
🕊💔Michelle Hardy
🕊💔Nina [Brown] Hawkins
🕊💔Sherry Hockstedt
🕊💔Kim James
🕊💔Mary [Helmick] Kessler-Bischoff
🕊💔Lariette Johnson
🕊💔Bonnie Jones
🕊💔Jackie Mobuary
🕊💔Susan Morris
🕊💔Karen Mulligan
🕊💔Rhonda Murdock
🕊💔Karrn Newton
🕊💔Denise Parker
🕊💔Donna Pope
🕊💔Edna Rich
🕊💔Artis White
Rest in Peace & Power...
🕊🕊Soar high 🕊🕊
Submitted by Joy A M Martin, August 2022
Rosalie Mae Carter Hillman, Class of 1956
Rosalie Mae Carter Hillman, 83, passed on February 7, 2022 at St. John’s Home, Rochester, NY. B 6/22/38 to Rosalie T. (Lappé) Carter and Harry Young Carter, Jr., Baltimore, MD.
Rosalie attended Western High School (1956) and was a promising soprano in the Peabody Preparatory program. While working at Enoch Pratt Free Library #14 (Pimlico branch), she met her future (now former) husband, Louis. By the time they married in 1962, she was working for the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, DC. In 1968, they moved to Rochester, NY, where Louis began a PhD program at the University of Rochester. Rosalie took employment as a tumor registrar at Strong Memorial Hospital’s then brand-new Cancer Center (now known as the Wilmot Cancer Institute). She remained in that position for 41 years, becoming a member of both the state (NYCRA) and national (NCRA) cancer registrars’ associations and occupying leadership positions in both organizations along the way. She was also valued staff for the semi-annual next-to-new sale at the Harley School, where her daughter was educated. From the late 1980’s through the early 2000’s, she further served her community as a Monroe County election inspector. In 1986, Rosalie joined the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Peace, holding various council positions, as well as appearing in the choir and as a soloist, until the church dissolved. From 1996-2002, she was also known as Lady Elswyth Rosamond in the Society for Creative Anachronism, earning recognition at both the local and regional levels for service as an event registration clerk and participating in the group’s choir.
She is survived by her brother, J. Edward Poorbaugh (b. 1953) and his family; her sister, J. Elaine (Poorbaugh) Heins Parker (b. 1954) and her husband; and Lee C. Hillman (b. 1972), who now resides in Pittsburgh, PA. She is fondly remembered by the many, many friends and loved ones who enjoyed her generous and loving spirit throughout her life, especially Dianna, Debra, Mike and Toby, and her remaining Peace Lutheran family. Her joys included music, a good mystery novel, and any excuse to laugh long, loud, and hard. Her family are glad to imagine that the Harry Y. Carter, Jr. Band has one more member now.
There will be no memorial at this time; we expect to hold a celebration around the summer solstice, in conjunction with her birthday
Diane Ostrofsky, Class of 1960
Diane Ostrofsky, Class of 1960
Peacefully and with dignity, Diane died April 17th (2019). What I remember most about this Ostrofsky daughter was her steely intolerance to injustice. My sister-in-law was born during World War II. Diane was of that young, vibrant generation of teen soldiers who, early on, fought the battle for civil rights. Diane was arrested in sit-ins protesting segregation and she proudly stood tall at the historic March on Washington.
As a dedicated history teacher in New York City, Diane was able to impart her personal story to her students to inspire them to help bend the moral arc of the universe towards justice.
I always admired Diane’s unwavering principled stand which came at the forefront of the civil rights movement at a time when it was highly unpopular and sometimes profoundly dangerous to espouse those views.
Thank you Diane for your passion and resolve. We who loved you will try to carry on your desire to make this a better world.
Submitted by Sandy Ostrofsky Gordon (Class of 1964), tribute written by Lee Gordon (brother-in-law)
Diane Ostrofsky, Class of 1960
Diane Ostrofsky, Class of 1960
Peacefully and with dignity, Diane died April 17th (2019). What I remember most about this Ostrofsky daughter was her steely intolerance to injustice. My sister-in-law was born during World War II. Diane was of that young, vibrant generation of teen soldiers who, early on, fought the battle for civil rights. Diane was arrested in sit-ins protesting segregation and she proudly stood tall at the historic March on Washington.
As a dedicated history teacher in New York City, Diane was able to impart her personal story to her students to inspire them to help bend the moral arc of the universe towards justice.
I always admired Diane’s unwavering principled stand which came at the forefront of the civil rights movement at a time when it was highly unpopular and sometimes profoundly dangerous to espouse those views.
Thank you Diane for your passion and resolve. We who loved you will try to carry on your desire to make this a better world.
Submitted by Sandy Ostrofsky Gordon (Class of 1964), tribute written by Lee Gordon (brother-in-law)
Merle Smith, Class of 1973
All services for Merle E. Smith will be at the Morning Star Baptist Church of Christ
1063 West Fayette Street Baltimore, MD 21223
Viewing:
Friday 21, 2020 Time:4:00pm-7:00 pm
Wake/Funeral
Saturday 22, 2020 Wake: 10:00am-10:30am
Funeral: 10:30am Please note due to COVID-19 restrictions the services on Saturday, August 22nd will be limited to 55 people which will be Merle’s family.
Please be respectful of this restriction. The services will be live-stream. Information regarding the livestream will be sent later. Face coverings must be worn during all services.
Expressions of condolences can be sent to Merle’s cousin
Theresa McEachern
3506 Wild Cherry Road
Baltimore MD 21244
Please continue to keep the family in prayer.
Victoria Stevenson, Class of 1968
The Western High School Alumnae Association, Inc. continues to acknowledge fond memories of Mrs. Victoria Stevenson. She was a proud 1968 graduate of Western High School. She spent her entire professional career, 39 years to be exact, as an educator at her alma mater, retiring as the Math Department Chair in 2012. She was also a dedicated and long-time supporter of the Alumnae Association. She is truly missed. The current students have the opportunity to benefit continuing education with the awarding of the Victoria Stevenson Scholarship Fund, established in her name.
Karen Lynn Smith, Class of 1982
Karen Lynn Smith, Class of 1982
Karen Lynn Smith, Class of 1982
Submitted by Natalie Haskins, Class of 1982
Paula Winslow, Class of 1977
Karen Lynn Smith, Class of 1982
Karen Lynn Smith, Class of 1982
Paula, after a short illness, passed away on September 13, 1996. She went to Morgan State University and earned a B. S. degree in Information System/Business. She was a member of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority Inc. While employed by Baltimore City Public Schools as a substitute teacher, she continued to pursue her education at Coppin State College in the Master of Education program.
Submitted by, Karen Thomas.
Life comes at you fast.
Anastatia Benton, Class of 1959
Karen Lynn Smith, Class of 1982
Anastatia Benton, Class of 1959
Tyra A. Womack, Class of 1980
Tyra A. Womack, Class of 1980
Nadine Brown-Pulliam, Class of 1970
October 3, 1952 - January 11, 2019
Submitted by Nicole Loney
Keysha Stewart Class of 1991
Dr. Shawyn Jenkins (Williams), Class of 1994
Submitted by Teri Cussaac, Class of 1991
Keysha Stewart Class of 1991
Dr. Shawyn Jenkins (Williams), Class of 1994
Dr. Shawyn Jenkins (Williams), Class of 1994
Submitted by Teri Cussaac, Class of 1991
Dr. Shawyn Jenkins (Williams), Class of 1994
Dr. Shawyn Jenkins (Williams), Class of 1994
Dr. Shawyn Jenkins (Williams), Class of 1994
Submitted by Nicole Loney
Michelle M. Bell, Class of 1994
Submitted by Nicole Loney
Le'Tanya Powell, Class of 1994
Submitted by Stacey Gales
Lori Goodman, Class of 1984
Lori Goodman, Class of 1984
As a student at Western, she was an outstanding member of the dance team.
She returned to Western to share her expertise with the current students as dance teacher
and coach of the school’s award winning Dance Team for several years.
She was also the mother of our fellow alumna, Lori Patrick (Class of 2012).
Faye Johnson Mager, Class of 1957
Faye Johnson Mager of Annapolis and Virginia Beach passed away peacefully on July 18, 2020 at the age of 81. Faye was born in Baltimore, MD to the late Dr. William R. Johnson and Naomi Lucille (Allen) Johnson. Faye graduated in 1957 from both Western High School and the Peabody Preparatory Department where she studied Piano. Faye then went on to the University of Maryland and graduated in 1962 with a degree in Social Work. Her professional career as a social services caseworker spanned from 1962 to 1994 and included positions with the Howard County Department of Welfare, Anne Arundel County Department of Social Services, and Anne Arundel Medical Center. Over the course of these assignments she worked tirelessly to help individuals and families in need as one of our community's personal links to the most vulnerable in our society. Faye met her husband, Irving "Pete" Mager Jr., while taking dance lessons and they were married in 1965, settling initially in Laurel MD. After her two children were born, the family moved to Annapolis, MD and established residency in Admiral Heights. Strong in her faith, she was an active member of Heritage Baptist Church in Annapolis for 44 years where she directed Children's Sunday School and served on various committees. She was also a proud member of the Severn Town Club, through which she organized a group that worked with parents of battered children. Her love of animals, particularly her dogs, led her to pursue animal welfare legislation at the state level. Faye enjoyed the fine arts, ballroom dancing, ice skating shows, socializing with friends, and shopping on QVC. She would go anywhere that involved good food, music, or dancing. She also loved to travel, completing many journeys throughout the United States and Canada, as well as various countries over multiple continents including Europe, Asia, and Australia. But most of all, Faye enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was married to the late Irving Mager Jr. for 52 years and is survived by son William Grant Mager; daughter-in-law Kendall Loker Mager; grandchildren Robert Zachary Mager, Blake DeSales Mager, and Ava Lin Mager; son Stuart Patrick Mager; daughter-in-law Lesli Reyes Mager; and grandchildren Aryel Reyes Mager, Aiyana Reyes Mager, and Liam Reyes Mager. Also surviving are step-daughter Tami Litvak and her husband Jeff Litvak; grandchild Amber O'Brien and husband Richard O'Brien; great grandchild Sawyer O'Brien; grandchild Gerrit Lewis and his wife Valerie Lewis; great grandchild Nala Lewis; grandchildren Katie Lewis, Elizabeth Fine and husband Josh Fine, and Rebecca Lewis; step-son Bryan Mager and his wife Marsha Mager; and grandchild Tara Mager. A private burial will be held on September 6th in Elkridge, MD. A celebration of life gathering for her large circle of friends is intended for a future date post-COVID. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of the United States, 1255 23rd Street, NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20037.
To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Published in The Capital Gazette on Aug. 9, 2020.
Submitted by Stuart Mager
Amy Lynn Robertson, Class of 1986
On May 10, 2015, Detective Amy Lynn Robertson departed this life after a battle with Leukemia. She was 46 years old and a 28 year veteran of the Baltimore City Police Department. She also owned a Dreamz Travel Agency.
Submitted by Patricia McMillan, Class of 1986
Amy Lynn Robertson, Class of 1986
Submitted by Patricia McMillan, Class of 1986
Keyona Alexis Mark, Class of 2008
July 6, 1990 - March 1, 2018
Sarika Satterfield (McCoy), Class of 1994
Submitted by Stacey Gales
Sarika Satterfield (McCoy), Class of 1994
Submitted by Stacey Gales
- Michal Neverdon Merritt, Class of 1967 passed away on January 25, 2016.
- Rosetta Gasque, Class of 1975 November 20, 1957 - April 5, 2010
- Muriel Handy, Class of 1967 passed away on April 2, 2015
- Dr. Rebecca Byrd, Class of 1975, passed away on April 8, 2010. "Becky," as she was affectionately known by her classmates at Western, went to medical school, and then on to become a doctor of Internal Medicine.
- Margaret R. Boyd, Class of 1989 January 3 1971- August 16, 2015 Margaret Rebecca Boyd passed with peace and grace on August 16th 2015, with her family at her side. For twenty years, Margaret worked as a Pre-Educator professional at the Maryland School for the Blind
- Margo Gibson Hughes, Class of 1982, departed this life suddenly on February 3, 2012, at Franklin Memorial Hospital, in the presence of her loving husband, Herbert Hughes.
- Carol Thomas Willis, Class of 1971, passed away in August 2012.
- Lynn Tyler, Class of 1971, passed on Saturday, July 30, 2011.
- Rachell Webb, Class of 1975. passed away on February 23, 2015.
- Dorothy Jean Hobson Reisenweber, Graduated in the 1940's. She passed away on August 23, 2012.
- Sherryl Ryce Parrish, Class of 1974 It is with a very, very heavy heart that I post this information. This was my best friend for many years. Sherryl passed away on Tuesday July 19, 2011, from cancer. She is survived by two adult children, a grandson, one sister and one brother, along with a large group of other family members and friends.
- Mrs. Karalee West, Class of 1958 (February Class), died on December 26, 2010. She had fond memories of Western, where she received a top education and met lots of lifelong friends. Submitted by her husband, Richard L. Jones
- Georgia was born in November 20, 1941, and died March 13, 2002, in Virginia Beach, VA.
Submitted by her lifelong friend, Nancy L. Waters Lauer (class of Feb 1960) - Ursula Edith Rasken Geoghegan, Class of 1960. Ursula was born August 4, 1942 and died December 28, 2004. She retired from BG&E, and lived in Ocean Pines until her death. Submitted by her lifelong friend, Nancy L. Waters Lauer (class of Feb 1960)
- Nanette Maria Contee, Class of 1975, passed in 1978. Loving sister of Marsha Contee White, Class of 1966. And best friend and god-sister, Juernene 'Chippy' Bass, Class of 1975.
- Helen Besley Overington, Class of 1924. In 1928, Helen graduated from Goucher College and began teaching Biology and General Science in New York and Maryland. She earned a Master's degree in Cyology and Genetics from Cornell University in 1930. While at Cornell, she worked under Barbara McClintock, who would go on to earn a Nobel Prize for genetics in 1984, for work done during the time Helen assisted.
- D. Winifred (Urban) Alt, Class of 1931, passed away on February 4, 2010 at 5 a.m. After graduating from WHS, she attended Goucher College (1931-1933), Maryland Institute College of Art (1951-1952),
and received her Bachelors of Science degree in 1955, from John Hopkins University. She was employed with the Enoch Pratt Library until she retired.
Information submitted by her son, David Alt. - Ursula Edith Rasken Geoghegan, Class of 1960. Ursula was born August 4, 1942 and died December 28, 2004. She retired from BG&E, and lived in Ocean Pines until her death. Submitted by her lifelong friend, Nancy L. Waters Lauer (class of Feb 1960)
- Debra Diane Hurtt, Class of 1970 passed away on January 1, 2011. She was employed as a Clerical Associate at Johns Hopkins Hospital for 40 years. Lovingly submitted by Adriane Hill, Class of 1975 & Cathy Hill Ruffin, Class of 1979