Mary Katherine Ishee

Death date: Jul 13, 2025

Mary Katherine “MK” Ishee, of Sperryville, Virginia, returned to her beloved Creator on July 13, 2025. She died at her home, in peaceful surroundings, with her loving family and cherished pets at her side. MK was a force of, and f Read Obituary

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Ellie Clark

18w ago

Although I haven't seen MK in years, I remember working with her and Bev Hunter when my family first moved from Reston to Rappahannock in '89. MK was such a wonderful environmentalist and lover of all things beautiful in Nature. I think it was RappFLOW (Friends and Lovers of Our Waterways) where I first met MK. We learned how to check the Rush River which borders my back yard for healthy microscopic critters. Our world needs more protectors of our Environment and Climate activists like MK, especially now. She will be missed by all who knew her. What a special woman and friend she was.
I imagine her animals and family are devastated, and I am saddened that she is no longer with us. Rest in deserved Peace, lovely lady.

Ellie Clark

Ellen Commerce

18w ago

Mary Katherine’s family would like to express our profound gratitude for all the memories, kind words, thoughts , prayers, flowers arrangements and trees planted that honor MK’s place in your lives. We were deeply touched to meet many of you at her visitation and Mass, as well.
We thank Found and Sons for their respect and care for MK (and us) as we laid her to rest.

Bruce Hartzler

19w ago

I am so sad that MK is no longer with us. During our time at the Washington Canoe Club, MK was the best training partner I ever had. She was always so sweet and kind, and a joy to be with. She has always been and will always be a wonderful and beautiful person.

Rachel Bynum

19w ago

Mary Katherine was always a big supporter of Waterpenny Farm and our family, with encouragement and kindness in the toughest times. She will be dearly missed as a favorite customer and friend. Her conversation, appreciation, and encouragement were so appreciated. So sorry to lose her!

David Alberswerth

19w ago

Please accept the condolences of Cary Ridder and myself for the loss of MK. The news of her passing shocked and saddened us both. We last visited with her at our home near Flint Hill last January. MK confessed that she had been struggling with cancer, but thought she was on the mend. We had a wonderful walk in the fields and woods near our house, and, of course, parted thinking everything was OK. Then the terrible news last week.

MK was one of those rare individuals who brought both joy and (entertaining) provocation to our conversations. I was a sometimes colleague of hers at the Interior Department, now so long ago, and worked with her from time to time when she served on the Hill. I was so glad to know that there were people of her sterling character serving in our government. More recently her advocacy for protecting Rappahannock’s beautiful landscape, and her work with elderly residents of the county will be missed. She believed so strongly that her purpose was to serve humankind, and her life was certainly exemplary of that belief. We so miss her cheery presence in our lives.

Peace, Dave Alberswerth

Steph R.

19w ago

Planted a grove of 5 Memorial Trees in honor of Mary Katherine.

A vibrant green tree flourishes in a sunny area, showcasing thick leaves and a sturdy trunk.

Plant a tree

Mary Frances Repko

20w ago

Mary Katherine gave me my career, part of her overall incredible generousness of spirit. When she left the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, I succeeded her in the job, which was one of the most challenging and affirming times of my life. She was so organized and kind in that transition, and I’ll always remember being huddled in her office with her and Scout going through files, learning issues and becoming a better staffer. I’ll miss her guidance, her smile and laugh, and will mourn the loss of her unwavering commitment to the environment and sustainability especially now. My deepest condolences to her family, Mary Frances Repko

Glenda Owens

20w ago

Sincere condolences to MK’s family on the loss we all feel. I worked with MK at the Interior Department and at OSM. She was the consummate professional. She was thorough, smart, and kind. And her smile lit up the room. You will be missed, MK.
Glenda Owens

Kate W.

20w ago

Planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Mary Katherine.

Plant a tree

Patti M.

20w ago

Planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Mary Katherine.

Plant a tree

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