Mary Jane Demas

Mary J. Demas passed away peacefully on Friday, October 26, 2018, the conclusion of a vibrant 98-year life span. Born on October 2, 1920 to James Hotis and Evarista Samaripa Hotis in El Paso, Texas, she enjoyed a life that encompassed a professional career, raising a family, volunteer work, and activities in the political arena. Trained as a hair stylist and later joined the U.S. Army Air Corp during WWII, working as an air traffic controller at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, DC. She made Albuquerque her home following her military time where she met her husband, George P. Demas, at the St. George Greek Orthodox Church. Mary’s many talents and endless energy led her to become involved in a number of organizations and endeavors. She worked for many years in retail sales and the hospitality industry. She was the Volunteer Coordinator for the Albuquerque Visitors and Convention Bureau. Her volunteer activities also included being a long-time member of the American Legion Carlisle Bennet Post 13. She served as an officer of the Auxiliary and was elected State President. Mary’s civic and political mindedness included work at the precinct level as well as serving on the campaign staff for a number of Democratic candidates. In later years she belonged to and attended the First Baptist, Heights Baptist, and Highland Baptist churches in Albuquerque. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and several siblings. Mary is remembered for her positive perspective of life and she often asked others “Have YOU smiled today?” She is survived by her children, Fran Mosher (Milton) of Grand Blanc, Michigan, Patricia Demas of Albuquerque, and Jim Demas of Albuquerque; two grandchildren, Peter Mosher (Lindsey) of Louisville, Kentucky and Coleen Mosher of Grand Blanc, Michigan; and great-grandchildren, Hadley, Baer, and December Mosher. A Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, November 1, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Park, 924 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the veterans organization of your choice in honor of Mary Demas.