Mary Lewis

Mary Lewis began every morning with a cup of coffee and the Austin American Statesman obituaries. As a florist she was West Austin's confidante. She was the first to know who was born, whom we loved, whom we thanked, who was engaged, who was ill and whom we lost. As wife of R.A. Lewis, she referred to herself as "the man behind the man." She was his compass rose. On April 4th, 2015, R.A. plucked his high school sweetheart up in Piper 99 Papa from a private airstrip and they soared off to eternal paradise.

Mary Lewis died a merciful death in Windsor, CA in the arms of hospice angel Mary Cordill while daughter Suzanne momentarily stepped away to ferry a friend. Born September 9, 1925 in Dallas, Texas to Hugh and Addie Lee McCormick, Mary moved to Austin in 1932. Windsor Road in those days was still a dirt road, but it wasn't long before R.A. was riding his horse down it to woo her in Hyde Park. They married in 1945, established Tarry Town Florist in 1946 and toiled hand in hand for the next 55 years. At age 16, Mary worked at the Austin Public Library, a job she adored until R.A. snagged her for the flower shop. She was an author, animal lover, the kindest of sweethearts, the absolute best mother, and greeted all with that beautiful smile.

The other love in Mary's life was daughter Suzanne. As best friends they traveled the world together. A memorable trip for both was to the Orkney Islands, Scotland. A bucking ferry across the stormy North Sea was nothing compared to the rough waters they plied battling life with dementia. Their last travel adventure was a road trip back to Northern California, a place they both cherished. Accompanied by dear friend Jennie Newton, Judge the Italian Spinone, and wheelchair, they followed Route 66 via the Grand Canyon and Yosemite across the Sierra and into the rolling hills of Sonoma County all the way to the Pacific.

Mary is preceded in death by husband R.A. Lewis and brother Ray McCormick. She is survived by Suzanne Lewis of Santa Rosa, CA, dearest niece Mary McCormick English of Smithville, TX, and other cousins, nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Tess Shevick of Terene Manor and Sutter Hospice for treating Mary with the ice cream, compassion and respect she so deserved.

Honorary pallbearers are Scott and Julia Starkey, Liz Starkey, Tom Wood, Marj Beard, Emily Little, David Kurio, Jennie Scott Newton, Jacquie Hoffman, Rich Randall, Dennis Sweazea, Frank English, Laurens Fish, Jr., A.R. and Fran Lochridge Perez, in addition to all "the girls."

Mary's favorite flower was the carnation. However, in lieu of flowers, (R.A. and David please forgive us), please send contributions to the Alzheimer's Association or Austin Pets Alive. Mary's beloved dog, Piper, will accompany her on her final journey. Graveside services will take place on Sunday, April 12 at 10 a.m. in Austin Memorial Park. Reverend Jacquie Hoffman will officiate. God grant me golden moments and minutes more. -- Mary Lewis