Tributes paid to Mary Allen, a ‘great character, indomitable spirit and a fiercely loyal friend’

Tributes have been paid to Mary Allen, one of Southport’s “great characters” who has sadly died. 

Mary was well known as a Southport Visiter advertising executive for many years, a champion water skier and a local business owner. 

Her friend Julia Jones, who established Mary Jones Vintage & Glamour with Mary, said: “It is with great sadness that I learned that my fabulous friend and former business partner, Mary Allen, has sadly passed away.

“Mary was one of life’s characters, an indomitable spirit and a fiercely loyal friend.

“It was she who introduced me to vintage, having been left a huge collection by her friend.

“Together we established Mary Jones Vintage & Glamour – she being the Mary and I being the Jones! “I kept the name after she retired some years ago – she remained passionate about vintage and was a huge support.

“I have no doubt that she will now be very approaching the pearly gates, dressed to the nines, brandishing a croc handbag and demanding ‘show me the vintage in this place!’”

Speaking on the Mary Jones Vintage & Glamour Instagram page, Nadine Coyne said: “I am absolutely heartbroken for you all. Mary was a larger than life character who as you say could rock a pearl necklace, huge earrings and was definitely never under-dressed. She will be sadly missed.” 

Another follower said: “I’m so sorry to hear this. What a classy and lovely lady.

“I remember when I first started doing vintage fairs and you were both so supportive and kind to me.

“Mary knew I liked a story behind a vintage piece and I remember her showing me a fabulous vintage (40s I think?) handbag with precious love letters from the original owner’s boyfriend inside. It was a magical, beautiful moment. Rest in Peace Mary.”

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