Mary Elizabeth Mathieux

Date of Death: June 20, 2023

service

All services will be private

Mary Elizabeth Mathieux, 55, of Richmond, VA, passed away on Monday, June 19th, 2023, at her home. Mary was born in June of 1967 in Winchester, VA to Mary and Donald Mathieux. She was baptized and confirmed at Sacred Heart Church; and attended Sacred Heart Academy, Daniel Morgan Middle School, and John Handley High School. Mary received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Communication Arts and Design from Virginia Commonwealth University, in Richmond, VA.

Moving to New York City, she worked extensively in publications, media and advertising as a graphic designer, web designer, and art director, attaining positions at the top of her field. Later, she opened her own design studio in New Jersey, providing small businesses with design and branding services. Mary had a love of learning, always looking to advance her knowledge of art and design. She attended classes at the School of Visual Arts as well as the Manhattan Graphics Center. She had explored historical and modern printmaking processes with impressive results, and loved drawing and collage. She also loved biking, music, travel, spending time in the great outdoors, and animals.

She is survived by her parents, Donald and Mary Mathieux; sisters Penny Musick (Stan), Sue Davis, Amy Mathieux (Tom Campagnoli); brother Paul Mathieux (Gita); nieces Jessica Strawderman (Buddy), Tessa Mathieux; nephew Turner Mathieux; and longtime partner Robert Salsbury; as well her beloved friends.

Services for Mary will be private.

Jessica Koehler

Jennifer Boddy

Sarah Orndorff

Beth Wood McGonigal

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All services will be private

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It saddened me today to hear of Mary's passing. I still remember the day the Mathieux Family moved in next door to me on Pennsylvania Ave., 5 kids to play with! My prayers to the Mathieux family as you will remain with me as good friends. God Bless, Cherlyn Bland

In memory of Mary Elizabeth Mathieux, Jessica Koehler lit a candle

Warmth, kindness, a quick smile that lights up her face, quiet reflection, determination, positivity, funky style, that messy hair bun, creativity, big bear hugs and an infectious laugh are what I will hold dear when I think about Mary. We shared a lot of adventures in our growing up years with a sometimes big and sometimes small posse of friends that included both of our sisters. There was never a dull moment. A mini golf game this winter put us in stitches of laughter. How great is it to let your hair down with friends who know your history and love you no matter what? What a gift. M2, you left us too soon. Watch over our posse from above and I’ll treasure our friendship and carry your spirit with me always. Love you.

Dear Mary: Thank you for sending me signs that you are in a peaceful place. The rainbow late in the week appeared after a long day of dreary rain and you shown bright in the sky. It was so apparent you were there, I couldn't miss it. A few days later, you appeared again by means of a shining hole in the sky amongst the dark clouds. And hey...didn't I just see you on a scooter wearing a flowing dress driving down my street. I see you everywhere. It's a comfort to know you are still communicating with me frequently after spending the last 6 months together. You are and always will be a blessing to this earth and to all our lives that you touched with your creative mind. Keep sending me signs, especially when I draw something really awful in the Vis Arts class I'm going to take in honor of YOU. I'll sit in the garden after and eat some key lime pie and maybe, just maybe I will sense your presence and reassurance. Rest peacefully M2 I'll continue to hold your hand as you navigate your way in peace. We send our love and Hogan sends his sloppy dog kisses. Love you always, Bear

My deepest condolences to all of Mary's family and friends. I met Mary at work in the early 2000s. We would make super strong coffee, to the detriment of everyone who drank it. We danced like crazy at the office Christmas party. I called her Wonder Woman and she called me Batman. She was cute, sweet, and funny. And she left us way too soon.

Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.

Mary and I were classmates at Sacred Heart Academy, Daniel Morgan Middle School and John Handley High School. She was always so kind and positive to be around. I am sad that she is no longer with us but know she is resting in peace in Heaven. ?

Very sorry to hear of Mary's passing. I, too, knew her growing up in Winchester, from 5th through 12th grade. As others have said, she was smart, creative, funny and very kind to all. She will be missed.

Mary was the most unique and cool person ever. Lived with her and Jennifer Jesse in Knoxville in all our early days way back. So sad to hear.

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Another Photo

I have known Mary since our elementary school days at Sacred Heart Academy, through John Handley, and was excited to catch up with her on the gang's infamous trip to New York in 2000. Her sweet personality, witty humor, and immense talent were always present. Sharing a few photos I remembered having from a first and sixth grade birthday party that Mary attended. My sincere condolences go out to the entire Mathieux family.

I’m shocked and deeply saddened to hear the news of Mary’s passing. She was a bright light and a kind, sensitive soul. We reconnected about six years ago after we both graduated art school at VCU in 1990. She was so creative and to this day I still have a handmade card she gave me back in college. She was so sweet and caring and always encouraging of my creativity. I feel grateful to have known her will miss her. I send my deepest sympathies to her family.?

So sorry to hear of Mary’s passing! Sincere condolences to her family. My high school experience was richer for having her in it. She was whip smart, funny, talented and kind.

I am shocked and deeply saddened by this news. I met Mary in 1993 and we have been friends ever since. I got her a job at the design agency where I was working, sometime around 2001. We spent an idyllic Manhattan afternoon together just last June and we Zoomed after she moved to Richmond. She was wildly talented as an artist and designer, extremely curious, thoughtful, generous, whimsical, playful, and very funny. She was truly one of the brightest lights in my life, a star that sparkled each time I saw her. My partner and I loved her beyond measure. I will miss my friend. Give ol' Warhol a slap on the back for me Mary! I love you.

I love this picture of Mary! It so shows her fun, spunky, independent side. We will all miss our kind, authentic, adventurous friend!

Like Zeb, I went to high school with Mary but also lived in Manhattan and Brooklyn around the same time as her. She was the most talented artist in our class and was gainfully employed in the NYC magazine scene for years, a very tough industry, especially given the sweeping changes of the digital age. Our hearts go out to her family.

We are so sad to hear of Mary's passing. Our hearts go out to her family. Sarah O and friends (Handley Class of 1985)

Very saddened to hear of the loss of Mary. I went to school with her at Handley. I remember her as a beautifully gifted artist, fun, and very sincere. The last time I saw her was for dinner in NYC with a crowd of other dear friends/ladies from our class of ‘85….many years ago…we all had a great time catching up and it was as if no time had passed. Sending heartfelt condolences to her loved ones.

I will always remember Mary as a sweet, artistic, talented person who always had a smile and kind word for everyone. Praying for her family at this difficult time.

I am sadden to see this obituary. Mary was a classmate of mine at John Handley High School. Mary was a wonderfully talented photographer and artist. She was quiet but very intelligent and had an amazing sense of humor. She always had a smile on her face that could brighten any room. I send my sincere condolences to her family and loved ones. In loving memory of Mary.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.