Maureen Gozdieski, 73, of Great Falls, Virginia, passed away peacefully surrounded by her three children on March 31, 2026.

Born on March 10, 1953, in Newark, New Jersey, Maureen lived a life defined by love, faith, and an unwavering devotion to the people around her. She was the beloved daughter of the late Leo Desmond and Helen Foley, and the cherished sister of Sarah Ryan and the late Laura Thompson.

Above all else, Maureen was devoted to her family. She shared many years with her former husband, Joseph Peter Gozdieski Sr. She is survived by her children, Joseph Peter Gozdieski Jr. and his wife Allyson, Melissa Lee Smith and her husband Steve, and Michael Desmond Gozdieski and his wife Chalathip. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Ella Grace, Chase, Max, Kaila, and Khloe.

Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. Maureen maintained a deep and personal connection to God, attending Catholic Mass regularly and living her beliefs through her actions—by caring for others, staying connected to family, and expressing love openly and often.

In recent years, Maureen found great happiness at Brightview Assisted Living, where she embraced each day with the same energy and enthusiasm that defined her life. Whether playing bingo, attending movie nights, enjoying special events, or joining group outings, she was fully engaged and grateful for the friendships and experiences that filled her days. She enjoyed reading, drinking her Diet Coke, watching the Eagles on Sundays, attending her grandchildren's soccer games and attending family dinners.

Maureen will be remembered for her loving heart, her joyful spirit, and her extraordinary ability to make everyone feel like family. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. A private, small, intimate family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and prayers with us, but we ask that you not send flowers.