Mary was one of those rare individuals who influenced and nurtured many people she came in contact with. For me, she encouraged me to stretch myself in reading a wide variety of novels, biographies and autobiographies. For several years we attended a SMU program that met at Maggiano’s for lunch and then we listened to a book review. We worked on quilting projects, one of them was making quilts for newborns in the NICU at Parkland. We loved playing bridge, book club, sharing wonderful recipes, Christmas brunches at Neiman Marcus, birthday dinners with Ralph Disch and my Dad and going to the theater.
She had a wealth of knowledge that I could always tap into. She encouraged me to delve deeper into everything. When reading a book, look up on a map where the story is located and learn about the author. She never did anything half way.
I hosted two viewing parties for the royal weddings. Several of us got together at 4:00 a.m. to share in the excitement of all the festivities. We had scones and wore hats and fascinators to enhance the experience. Because Mary had lived in London, she had wonderful tidbits to share.
Whenever I came back from being out of town, Mary and Tom would have a few essentials in the refrigerator for me and they would prepare a small meal so I wouldn’t need to worry about anything. Her generosity and kindness will be remembered.
—Ginny Lydick