2026 Christmas Mother

Contact the Powhatan Christmas Mother by e-mail at powhatancec@verizon.net

Christmas Mother 2026

Mary Ellen Freer

I am deeply honored and humbled to serve as the 2026 Powhatan Christmas Mother. For the past 18 years, Powhatan has been the place I am proud to call home—a community that has given me friendships, opportunities, and countless reasons to believe in the power of neighbors caring for neighbors.

I share my life with my wonderful husband, Bruce, and together we have been blessed with five children and nine grandchildren scattered across the country. Family is at the heart of who I am, and they have taught me that some of life’s greatest gifts are found not in what we receive, but in what we are able to give to others.

I am the owner of DeSigns by Mary Ellen, an interior design business that allows me to do something I truly love—helping people create homes and spaces that reflect who they are. I also believe strongly in giving back to the community I serve. Through my involvement with local organizations, the Powhatan Chamber of Commerce, which I am a Board member.  Community Matters, Habitat for Humanity Powhatan, The Free Clinic and other charitable efforts, I have had the privilege of meeting so many wonderful people who make Powhatan the special community it is.

I love life. I love people. I love traveling, creating, entertaining, laughing with family and friends, and finding ways—large and small—to make a difference. I have always believed that when we are fortunate enough to have something to give, whether it is our time, talents, resources, or simply kindness, we should share it.

Being selected as Christmas Mother is more than an honor to me. It is an opportunity to serve families right here in our community and to remind them that they are seen, valued, and cared for. Christmas can be a joyful season, but for families facing difficult circumstances, it can also bring worry and uncertainty. My hope is that through the generosity of this community, we can replace some of that worry with joy and some of that uncertainty with hope.