Letters to Mary

Write a note to Mary by clicking on the "Comments" link below.

Comments

[Jamie Folsom]

Dear Mary,

So many people learned so much from you, took such joy in your company, that the impact of your departure cannot be fathomed.

Those of us who choose, will share our recollections of you here, and celebrate your wonderful, extraordinary life, as best we can, with words and pictures.

You are loved, and you will be missed.

[Philip Nel]

Dear Mary,

I was so pleased to receive your end-of-year letter, but very sad when I learned that it would be the final one.

You see, I wanted to write back and tell you what I've learned. You've been so helpful in sharing your memories of Crockett Johnson (a.k.a. Dave) for my bio-in-progress of him and Ruth Krauss. And just last month I was at the Smithsonian, looking through the papers of Ad Reinhardt, Rockwell Kent, and Carl Zigrosser -- all acquaintances of Dave's. Amidst these papers, I found a brochure for the Downtown Community School -- with your name on it, of course. I also learned that Dave met Ad in the 1930s, around 1936. (Did you know Ad in the '30s, too?)

I learned so much from our conversations. And I so appreciate you sharing your extraordinarily sharp memories of the 1930s -- of Dave, Charlotte Rosswaag, Sender Garlin, Franklin, and of your own remarkable life, of course.

As you said, you really did lead "a remarkable life." So active -- and activist -- right up to 98 and a half. When I talk about my research for this biography, I always mention you because you're so remarkable (there's that word again) that I simply can't help myself. I mean, reading hundreds of books a year for the Jane Addams Book Award, talking walks every morning, lifting weights, protesting the war, and so much more! What a model for living a full life! I know it's a cliche to say that someone is "an inspiration." But in your case, the cliche is true. You really were -- and are.

I will miss you, but I continue to be inspired by you, too.

Thank you, again, for everything.

[Sarah Van Keuren]

Dear Mary,

I have just spent about 4 hours writing eulogies for you and have lost both versions as I returned a second time to make corrections from the first reading. I am afraid to spend any more time but will write up my memories and admiration for you at a later date. I am so sorry not to be at the memorial for you tomorrow.

much love,
Sarah