Mary Constance Houtz

Mary Constance “Connie” Houtz Mary Constance Houtz, lovingly known as Connie, passed away on May 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of deep faith, creativity, and unwavering devotion to her family. Born on September 27, 1939, in Frederick, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late Frank “Ging” Shankle and Margaret “Gama” Shankle (Cole). Connie grew up on Biggs Avenue in Frederick in a home built by her father. She was raised alongside her sisters—Carole, Beckie, Susie, and Jackie—by her parents and their cherished family friend, Elizabeth “Deede” Kimmel, who was a constant and beloved presence in the home. She graduated from Frederick High School and went on to attend Western Maryland College (now McDaniel College), earning her degree in 1961. Connie later pursued graduate studies at American University. Her sharp intellect led her to a career with the federal government as a linguist, a role that allowed her to travel the world. During this time, she met her loving and devoted husband, John Houtz. After their marriage, Connie and John spent several years living in Africa, where they began raising their three sons. In 1974, the family settled in Manassas, Virginia, where Connie built a full and meaningful life centered on her family. She worked for many years as a skilled medical transcriptionist, serving Dr. Paul Desper, Jerry, and numerous physicians throughout Prince William County. Connie was a woman of deep and abiding faith and a cornerstone of Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she was actively involved for more than 50 years. She was an accomplished pianist, a dedicated music teacher, and a strong supporter of local youth music programs. Her talents extended far beyond music. Connie was known as an exceptional cook and baker, and she expressed her creativity through sewing, knitting, and photography. An avid reader and lifelong learner, she embraced technology in her later years to research her family history, compiling volumes of genealogy to preserve for future generations. Though she spent most of her adult life in Virginia, Connie remained a Marylander at heart. She cherished memories of summers in Ocean City, her love of Maryland blue crabs, and the rich history of her hometown of Frederick. She was also a devoted animal lover and cared for many beloved dogs and cats throughout her life. Connie is survived by her beloved husband, John Houtz; her sons, Chris, Pete, and Jason. She also leaves behind two beloved daughters in law; Suzy (Jason) and Candi (Pete) as well as her extended family, whom she loved deeply. She also held a special place in her heart for the family of her late sister Carole, including Henry “Hank” Jacoby and their children, Andrew and Heather and her husband John. She is further survived by two granddaughters-in-law, seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Chris's children, Sean and Daniel. Sean’s wife, Lindsey, and their children Quinton, Eli, and Abby. Daniel’s wife, Allison, and their children Logan, Adam and Jason. Pete and his wife Candi's children, Peter "Petey,” Claudia, and Genevieve. Jason and his wife Suzy's children, Collin and Wyatt. She is also survived by two former daughters-in-law, Jeanette Morrison and Joanna Cangianelli. Connie will be deeply missed by her family, her church, and her community. Funeral services will be held on June 8, 2026 at: 11:00 am Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church 8712 Plantation Lane Manassas, VA There will be a visitation held at Bethel from 10:00 am to 11:00am followed by a service and reception. The family will gather privately to lay her to rest at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Frederick, Maryland. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Mary Constance Houtz

September 27, 1939 - May 27, 2026