Mary M. Woods

Mary M. Woods, a radiant beacon of love and wisdom, transitioned from this earthly realm on November 2, 2025, in Williamsport, after a life of devotion to God and service. Born on December 29, 1956, in Baltimore, MD, to Frederick and Justine (Feustle) Maples. Mary's life was a testament to the power of love and the pursuit of spiritual understanding.

A woman of many talents, Mary was also an accomplished writer and collage artist, showcasing her gifts, punny humor and wit, in endless family and professional creations. Her loving presence and homemaking was a source of comfort and inspiration to her husband, David L. DeFebo, of the home; her siblings, Fred Maples of Baltimore, MD, Richard Maples and Michele Mather of Williamsport, and Karen Humphrey (Jack) of Williamsport; and her beloved golden retriever, Magi. Her extended family and a multitude of friends will forever cherish the blessings she bestowed upon their lives.

After majoring in philosophy and comparative religion, Mary went on to hone her insights on staff at esteemed institutions, The Omega Institute, The Foundation For A Course In Miracles and the Edgar Cayce Institute. Her intellectual pursuits culminated in the authorship of two seminal works, “The Heart of the Matter" and "One Loving Life is All There Is," which continue to inspire and guide those on their own paths of self-discovery.

Early on, Mary’s passion for well-being led her to establish a health food restaurant in Puerto Rico and later become a health and wellness coach, a natural extension of her desire to nourish both body and soul. A forerunner of holistic living who lived a heart-centered life in service to her higher purpose, she opened her home to host ceremonies for positive change to uplift the community vibration, putting into action her belief, “there is a lot of power in group collective consciousness.” She also was a prominent member of online priestess communities where Mary’s spiritual wisdom guided countless individuals toward inner peace.

Mary's dedication to community service was unwavering. Her participation in the 13 Moon Walk for PEACE was a reflection of her deep commitment to fostering harmony and understanding across the country. Upon her return she volunteered for the Beloved Community Council, The Heart of Williamsport Project, delivering the invocation at the swearing in ceremony of judges in January 2019, and the Second Street Community Garden Project; she embodied the essence of selfless action.

We ask that you honor Mary M. Woods by emulating her example: to live with purpose, to serve with passion, and to love without limits.

In lieu of flowers, please consider sharing Mary’s books with loved ones in your life to spread Mary’s vision of unconditional love, available at OneLovingLife.com or donate to facim.org. Celebration of life service to be announced at a future date.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary M. Woods, please visit our floral store.