Virginia Lena DeJarnette Pratt

Mrs. Mary Lena DeJarnette Pratt, daughter of the late Katherine DeJarnette and Walter Ware, was born in Washington, DC on April 6, 1946, and departed this life on September 7, 2024, at the Washington Hospital Center.

She was a member of Walker Memorial Baptist Church for over 45 years, serving in many capacities.

Mary Lena was married for 38 years to her devoted husband, William Pratt. Their union produced two daughters, Tonnette and Sylena; and two sons, Anthony and William, Jr.

Mary Lena was pre-deceased by her husband, William; son, William Jr.; daughter, Sylena; great granddaughter, Sylena A; brothers, William Henry, Michael, William; and sister, Renee.

In November 1966, Mary Lena received her GED certificate.  She attended the University of Maryland where she pursued her Journalism degree.  She wrote articles for the Public Affairs Office in the Selective Service System; a "Life is Beautiful" article in the Front Porch paper; Letters to the Washington Post editorial staff; speeches that were award-winning and countless other writings.

Mary Lena was also a successful saleswoman.  She could sell "Ice to an Eskimo."  As an Avon Representative throughout many years, she received multiple Mrs. Albee Doll Awards for her outstanding leadership and salesmanship.

Mary Lena retired from the Federal Government - Department of Veterans Affairs and worked at other government agencies.  She also retired from the Prince Georges County Police Department.

After retiring from the P.G. County Police Departmet in Augustt 2013, she received an Achievement Award from the Nursing Assistant Academy and received her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certificate from the State of Maryland Board of Nursing.

In October 2013, she worked as a Caregiver at Right-at-Home, in Home Care and Assistance where she received the Right-at-Home Caregiver of the Year Award.  Mary Lena was recognized out of the estimated 15,000 caregivers serving clients throughout the United States for her outstanding service as a professional caregiver.

Mary Lena leaves her children, Tonnette Pratt and Anthony Pratt; brother, James DeJarnette (Jean); sisters, Noreen Chase and Michelle Rose; grandchildren, Nicole Pratt-Bagley, Kiretha Pratt and Tony Pratt; great grandchildren: Anthony Pratt, Aavonte Pratt, Azaiah Pratt; great great grandchildren: Anthony Pratt, Jr and Zyrell Sims; nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

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