August 1960: I was standing behind her in the registration line at University of Houston. She introduced herself and immediately had questions for me. As we left she invited me to stop by her house to meet her parents and sister. That was the beginning of a friendship that lasted six decades.
Over the years we have shared the “ups and downs” of life, with phone calls, giggles, letters, cards, emails, and texts. Hardly a week went by that we did not exchange a short message about a “must read” book, or some art or fashion news. Two days before she died she sent me a text noting that Jill Biden needed a “dresser” to upgrade her “appearance” so that Mrs. Biden would “look” like the wife of our president! I assured her she need not worry, someone must be looking after that detail.
Mary was a dear friend. I will miss her loyalty, energy, kindness, generous spirit, honesty, and challenging mind. She was a gift to me and many others. I will miss her.
—Sue J. Brown