Mary Ellen Warren, 87, of Pinehurst, passed away on Thursday, January 25, 2018.
She was born December 5, 1930 to the late George and Ruth Smith in Cleveland, Ohio. She is predeceased by her brother George Smith, Jr. of Shaker Heights, OH.
Mary Ellen is survived by her devoted husband and best friend of 64 years, Howard Warren; brother Robert L. Smith of Seattle, WA; daughter Linda Warren and husband Stuart Derby of Austin, TX; daughter Sue Ellen Hendrixson and husband Charles Hendrixson of West Chester, PA; son Scot Warren and wife Lisa Warren of Kildeer, IL; 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
Mary Ellen was a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University where she studied art education. Her early adult life was devoted to raising her children and serving as behind-the-scenes support for her husband’s architectural firm. In addition, she devoted endless volunteer hours to several non-profit organizations including the Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America and the United Way. She always found ways to use her creativity to help others grow. She taught art at Highland Middle School for 10 years and was rewarded by the enrichment she brought to the lives of her students. In retirement, she was active in the Artists League of the Sandhills where she taught classes, established a library, judged exhibitions and provided leadership for the art community. She served on the Board of Directors of the Arts Council of Moore County and was a member of the Sanford Brush and Palette Club where she taught classes and was honored with awards for many of her watercolor paintings. An accomplished artist, fine art was her passion.
A memorial service will be held at Trinity Christian Fellowship Church, 425 Magnolia Road, Pinehurst on Friday, February 2 at 2:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Foundation of FirstHealth (Moore Regional Hospital Foundation) or the Artists League of the Sandhills.
Online condolences can be made to www.bolesfuneralhome.com
Boles Funeral Home of Pinehurst is serving the family.
Mrs. Warren’s family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers at Sandhills Sentinel.
