Mary Elizabeth Diradour Adams

Mary Elizabeth Diradour Adams, 85, died Thursday, July 6, 2023. She was born in Hopewell, Virginia, on September 26, 1937, to the late Martin H. Diradour, Sr. and Arden Alexanian Diradour. She was preceded in death by her sister, Dorothy Diradour O'Neal. She was a June 1959 graduate of the then Richmond Professional Institute of the College of William and Mary (now VCU) with a BS degree in Elementary Education and Social Science. Her first year of teaching (1959-1960) in Prince George County was significant. A Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Co. transmitter - receiver was installed in her 4th grade classroom, and in the home of a physically challenged child who, as a shut-in, had always been home educated. The telephone hookup allowed the child, with the push of a button on a small-sized box, to be a member of a classroom and interact with the teacher and classmates. This remote teaching was a first-time event in this part of the state.
A Hopewell native, Mary moved to Petersburg in 1962 where her late husband, Dr. Herbert F. Adams, Jr. practiced orthodontics. During the years she resided in Petersburg and later in Prince George County, she was an active member of St. Mark's United Methodist Church. She was a member of the Cockade City Garden Club and served as president. Also, she was a member of the Raleigh Parish Garden Club, serving for a term as activities chairman and project chairman. When she made her home in Hopewell, she was an active member of First Presbyterian Church (where she was baptized as a child).
With her genuine interest in people, she liked being a joiner and a willing helper. She enjoyed get-togethers to share common interests: bridge, piano, music, and team tennis (in earlier years). And she enjoyed reading. She loved reading aloud to children and children were eager to listen to her - she brought stories to life. Finally, she was interested in ikebana, gardening, the beauty of flowers, and the beauty they attract - butterflies, birds, and bees.
Most important to her were her daughter, her son-in-law, and grandchildren. She is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Adams Gutzmer (Dan); grandson, Zach Gutzmer; granddaughter, Sarah Gutzmer; sister, Virginia Diradour; and brother, Martin Diradour (Martha); nieces, Arden O'Neal Peterson (Rev. David) Lyn O'Neal; great- nephews, David Peterson, Luke Peterson (Morgan), Matthew Peterson, and Stephen Peterson.
A private service was held at Sunset Memorial Park. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Mary greatly appreciated the love, care and concern from her church family. Therefore, contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 1107 W Broadway, Hopewell VA 23860.