Mary Ellen Hewitt had the kind of laugh that came out of nowhere and transported the whole crowd to a brighter place. Her staccato chuckle won her many friends and her youthful exuberance and love of life sealed the deal. She liberally handed out greeting cards to friends and family, showered her cat Tommy with love, and shopped with reckless abandon. She had a dynamic personality that encompassed her love of animals, sweets, wrestlers and so much more. Mary's sense of humor and kind heart were absolutely among her greatest attributes.

Mary was also known for her photographs. After rooting through her large purse for some time she would brandish a small disposable camera. The highest compliment was to be included in a snapshot. Friends were likely to see the developed pictures during their next visit and Mary's big smile was a constant throughout the photographs. This fierce determination to document the joys in life shows how Mary did not want to not be defined by difficult times in her youth. People close to Mary admired this strength.

Open Door Art Studio was Mary's artistic home for many years. Her longtime boyfriend also creates at Open Door and seeing them make art together was truly heart-warming. Her work primarily featured animals painted in abstracted, colorful forms. Mary's painted creations were as playful and cheery as her personality.

Mary, 76 years young, passed away in early March 2014. She will be greatly missed by family and friends. Her laughter will live on in her artwork and in the people blessed by her friendship.

Meerkat Menagerie

Prancing Puppy

Rosey Kitty