Mary Walton, 91, widow of American antiques dealer John S. Walton, died on February 6. Most people in the antiques community will remember Mary’s warm and hospitable nature, whether sitting by John’s side at auctions or opening their home to clients and colleagues.

Mary’s first love, however, was for preserving the environment. She was well known in Southeastern Connecticut as an avid environmental activist and was well-respected for her unwavering devotion to that cause. She fought countless political battles in her goal to preserve open land and promote responsible development. Mary received state and local recognition for her efforts, and her accomplishments were recently memorialized in the editorials of two leading Southeastern Connecticut newspapers.

Mary will be deeply missed by her family and friends. A memorial service will be held in her honor in early spring. Donations may be made in Mary’s memory to the Avalonia Land Conservancy, Inc, PO Box 49, Old Mystic CT 06372.