Many years ago, I spent an afternoon at the fairgrounds looking for the person whose name was on a list of Delta Quilter’s show participants. The persons’ name was Mary Sutton; she entered 16 quilted items to beat out my 14 items. No one seemed to know the “new member” who moved from Concord to Brentwood, but we were all impressed. Since that day, Mary and I became fast friends. It was fun to have a friend who lined up their sewing pins in color coded rows like me.

When I would arrive at her home, Ray would see me coming and open the door with a cold Coke Classic for me. As the years went by we took multiple classes, retreats, quilt shows and shopping trips that took us all over CA and NV. We shared our talents, supplies, embroidery designs and patterns.

When Mary decided to run for an office of a nonprofit; she talked me into serving with her. When I ran for an office; I talked her into serving with me. We always had each other’s backs as sometimes the right thing and the easiest thing are rarely the same. Collectively, we volunteered thousands of hours.

As Mary’s illness progressed, we would spend hours talking on the phone. She appreciated rides to the doctor’s office and John Muir ER in W.C. Even then, we gave each other advice and support. She was exceptionally smart, loyal, honest and practical. Enduring friendships are hard to come by.

Kristi, Brian and Travis.

I just wanted to say it was a lovely service for my bff Mary. I can't stand in front and tell all about our long years of friendship. I know that I would not have made it without all my crying, however Mary you are missed everyday to me. I will forever remember our long talks, stories about our families, all the things we did together to the BBQ I would do for you when I stayed at your house.  All of our Kimberbell designs that we shared, laughed about and tested each other to see who finished what first....

You were in my life since Anaylissa was 5 and the love that you shared with those grandkids will be remembered forever, Mary.

From all of our sewing, retreats, shopping adventures, BBQ, drinking our wine together and inspiration we shared, I will forever cherish....

You were such a strong person Mary, I didn't want to say good-bye on my end but that would have been selfish to me as I know how much you suffered. I will again, Mary Sutton remember you forever and ever. I will think of you each and every day that I am sewing my Kimberbell designs. The other night I was working on a pillow and thought I need to call Mary and ask her what she thinks? I can't do that anymore so I will just try to remember what you would have advised me to do. Mary, I can't put it all here in writing as I am crying typing this message but I will tell you. I love you forever...

Love Rose