Mary Lou had a deep love and appreciation of art. She began her lifelong career in this field teaching art classes in Salina. This passion was expanded when she joined a group of like minded artists, who developed the organization soon to be known as “The National Society of Decorative Artists”. Mary Lou was an active participant until she became ill. She was one of the first to achieve the distinction of the society’s highest award, which is the “Degree of Master Painter”. Her classes were held all over the United States, as far away as Alaska, eventually internationally including Japan, which led to some of her Japanese students following her to Salina for private lessons.

Mary Lou wrote and published 5 books on painting in the Victorian Style with focus on women, children, and angels, as well as floral techniques. She had a large and loving following of avid students from all corners of the world. Her style is completely unique.

She was a member of PEO, an avid tennis player, enjoyed water skiing and was an active member of the Salina community. She was instrumental in forming the Alzheimer’s “Arts and Inspiration Center of Salina”, which evolved into the Adult Day Care Center.

Mary Lou is survived by her husband of 55 years, Wayne, daughters Judy Stockham of Independence, MO, Cindy Egan of Salina and son Brett Johnson of Overland Park, KS. She is also survived by 6 adoring grandchildren.

The memorial service will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church, 308 S 8th, Salina. Private burial will be in the Gypsum Hill Cemetery, Salina.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Hospice of Salina or First Presbyterian Church.

Visitation will be from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday at the mortuary, where the family will receive friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m.