Mary Brunoli died on Monday, September 24, 2007 after a long battle with cancer.

Mary and I first met at a National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut convention in the early seventies. In those days our conventions were sometimes held at Oak Hill School for the Blind, Mary's alma mater.

Mary's dedication to the National Federation of the Blind and to all blind-related issues was unwavering. She believed firmly that children who are blind or large print readers need to learn Braille. To that end, Mary coached and taught Braille wherever and whenever asked. She also chaired our NFBC Braille Readers are Leaders Contest committee for many years.
Before another word is written about Mary, I must speak of Ben Snow. They were friends and companions for more than 45 years. Ben called Mary "honey" and "dear". Mary's endearment was "Oh, Ben", sometimes with a frown, mostly with a shy smile.

Mary's participation in NFB divisions and NFBC committees and board positions was numerous. As a musician, a poet and a secretary, she belonged to all three divisions. Over the years she has served as Secretary of our State Affiliate, President of the Hartford Chapter, Legislative Chair and, as has been mentioned above, Chair of the NFBC Braille Readers are Leaders Contest.

Mary and Ben attended State and National Conventions and Washington Seminars every year until recent years when poor health made traveling difficult.

Dr. Maurer said that Mary was the salt of the earth and that she would be missed. I think we would all agree - and with a little pepper added.

One final note - Mary loved the NFB with all her heart. Dr. Jernigan was someone she admired greatly and believed in absolutely.

Mary, we will miss you.

For more information, E-mail us at: info@nfbct.org