Birth date: Jan 31, 1928 Death date: Sep 12, 2020
Mary Shellabarger Cleave, 92, passed away September 12, 2020, after a brief stay in hospital and physical therapy while trying to return to her home in Primrose Retirement Community of Decatur, where she had enjoyed life for the p Read Obituary
We met Mary through the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Decatur. She was always kind and we appreciate the time we had with her.
- Darwin Shroyer & Jennifer Sekosky
I first met Mary in the painting classroom of Marv Klaven at Millikin University. We were both non-traditional students. We painted together, talked things over and critiqued each others' work. Along with another non-traditional we started the Gallery 510 so we could continue to paint together. Mary was very instrumental in making this happen. She was pleased to have the gallery in her great-aunt's former home. She recounted to me many fun times she had as a child in the home. Her art studio was in her aunt's master bedroom and our office was in the sewing room. I learned a lot from Mary. She was always trying something new with her artwork. I was impressed by her inquisitiveness. Whether it was something new in art, cooking recipes or making a Halloween costume for the grandkids, she loved trying new things. I will always remember Mary fondly. She was a good friend, intelligent and caring. I will treasure my painting by her now even more. I'm sorry for the family's loss.
We first met Mary Cleave in the mid 1990's when we moved next door to her and Scott. We were unloading our furniture and she brought over a freshly baked loaf of bread and a jar of jam and introduced herself. We have many fond memories of them. We also have a treasured piece of art that we had Mary paint for us.
With sympathy,
Michelle and Gene Dillow
To the Mary Cleave family,
Your mother Mary was a warm hearted and creative artist. She was always interested in you, and if one of her sons was off in the world ; Mary had a neat wall map in the kitchen to show where you were. Many excellent childhood memories. I hope and pray for you at this time. You have a great mother.
Your friend,
Andrew Freeman.
In my office hangs a beautiful Mary Cleave still life oil painting. Many clients have commented on its quality and colorfulness. Scott Cleave was a fellow lawyer and friend, a true gentleman. I believe I acquired the Mary Cleave painting at a Gallery 510 exhibit of her work. The painting is a welcome contrast to the dull presence of framed diplomas and legal credentials, books, and file cabinets. To Scott and Mary Cleave's family I send my sympathy and best wishes. --Nick Burton, Decatur.
