Mary Eiland

MARY KAY EILANDPassed away on Monday, July 2, 2012 at age 91. She had just celebrated her 73rd wedding anniversary with her husband, J. D. Eiland. Mary Kay was born in Sioux City, Iowa, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leo E. Thiele. She lived in New York and Cleveland before moving to California at age 12. Leo Thiele was a syndicated editorial cartoonist and one of the early artists at Walt Disney Studios. Art was very much a part of her life from as long as she could remember. She studied at Pasadena City College, Citrus College, and Chouinard Art Institute in California, in addition to workshops and tutelage by distinguished artists. Before moving to Albuquerque in 1985, she exhibited in many juried shows in Southern California, and won several awards. She was a Signature Member of the New Mexico Watercolor Society and exhibited in several juried shows of the NMWCS and in National Small Paintings shows. She traveled and painted in the US, Bermuda, Europe, and various Asian countries. Her paintings hang in many private collections, including in Virginia, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, and California. In New Mexico, she was represented by Coriell Gallery of Albuquerque. In Mary Kay's own words, Wherever I go, I look at the world through a painter's eye, seeing design, paintings, and drawings everywhere. I want to paint everything! I enjoy sharing my outlook, and no matter what, will continue to try to capture it all. Mary Kay was also a founding member of the Sandia Presbyterian Church. She is survived by her husband, J.D. Eiland of Albuquerque, and her son Michael Eiland of Arlington, Virginia. She was preceded in death by two daughters, Julia Kay and Mary Cecile. She is also survived by four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Mary Kay's work and her spirit live on through her art, her church, and the undying love of her family and friends. Her life will be celebrated at a memorial service at Sandia Presbyterian Church, 10704 Paseo Del Norte NE, on Sunday, July 8, at 5:00 p.m. For friends who wish, flowers may be sent to French ~ Wyoming Chapel. A private interment service will be held at El Camino Memorial Park in San Diego, California.