Mary Helen Garton
Mary Helen Garton August 19, 1947 – August 12, 2024
With heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Mary Garton, beloved friend and dedicated community advocate. Mary left us on August 12, 2024, just one week short of her 77th birthday. As an active participant, donor and volunteer in Santa Barbara, she leaves an empty chair at many community tables. From her involvement in the non-profit sector or her commitment to civic duty, working her polling place during local and national elections, Mary’s contributions to the community have been numerous and beyond the scope of this page.
Mary Helen Garton, was born on August 19, 1947, the only child of Mary Vessels Garton and George W. Garton, at Fort Sill, Oklahoma where her father was stationed. As a result of the many locations the Garton family called home, she traveled the world, often referring to herself as an ‘army brat’. Her father’s lengthy assignment in post-WWII Germany and the family’s time in England served as two of her greatest influences, and where her passion for literature, world history, politics and theater had their beginnings.
After retirement from the military,Mary’s father moved the family to Santa Barbara for an executive position at Delco, a branch of General Motors. Mary attended Santa Barbara’s Marymount School and, after graduation, Stanford University. She remained in the Bay Area as a banker before moving to London and New York City for long term positions with Barclay’s Bank. Her apartment in the City was within a short distance of the Twin Towers on 9/11, a tragedy that remained with her for life.
Traveling from coast to coast for vacations and to care for her mother, following the death of her father, Mary returned permanently to Santa Barbara after her mother’s passing. Quickly becoming involved in the community, she offered her services and talents throughout the non-profit sector. Her involvement included The Cecilia Fund, the Museum of Natural History/Art Walk, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, the Community Arts Music Association (CAMA) Women’s Board, the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) Women’s Board. She held a variety of Executive Board positions, often as Treasurer, but the position that gave her the greatest sense of pride was as President of the SBMA Women’s Board. Mary’s volunteer choices always mirrored her interests, including a love of art, classical music, cinema, books, language and, of course, politics.
Along with her stunning sense of style she brought with her a dry, yet insightful sense of humor, which translated to every aspect of her life. Mary’s beautiful blue eyes, welcoming smile and generous heart will be forever remembered by the many friends and acquaintances she leaves behind. She will be sorely missed. Interment will be at the U.S. Military Academy at Westpoint, NY.
A contribution in her name to a charity of your choice would serve to honor her memory.