Mary Lou has been an ever-present fixture in my life and I'm so grateful to have spent so many years as her friend.
When I was a kid, Mary Lou was the "beautician" and fashion advisor among her friends and always kept a watchful eye on the happenings in the neighborhood. She was also one of the most generous people I've ever known.
She was my mother's best friend and then my friend when I became an adult, and she was there for my family at such critical times that only Mary Lou could have saved the day.
Our lives will never be the same without Mary Lou around but we will never forget all the happy memories of times spent with her, her sweet laugh, her shocked expressions or her beautiful smile.
Rest in peace, my dear friend and sometimes savior. I will miss you so much.