Mary Ann “Sis” Barnum, 92, formerly of Cazenovia, died Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2016, at Forestview Manor in Meredith, NH, after a long illness. She was born in Salem, MA. on July 24, 1924, the daughter of Forrester and Mary (Brown) Ainsworth and grew up in Darien, CT.
She graduated from Darien High School and Parson’s School of Design in New York City , studying privately with Harry Knowles and Louie Bouche. She also worked in the art department for Vogue Magazine.
Mary Ann was an accomplished artist and a founder of Cazenovia Arts. She was a member of the Central New York Watercolor Society, Cazenovia Watercolor Society and Lyme Arts Association.
In 1945, she married William H. (Bus) Barnum in Darien, CT. They moved from Darien to Kinderhook, N.Y., then to Redding, CT and finally settling in Cazenovia in the early 1960s.
“Sis” was a committed friend to the village of Cazenovia and unselfishly devoted her talents and time to numerous community activities. Her charming personality and infectious smile earned her the undying respect and friendship of all she came in contact with. She was adored by her children and was the best “Nana” ever to her beloved grandchildren.
Mary Ann is predeceased by her parents, her husband William, one sister, Joan Slocum and one brother Forrester Fisher Ainsworth. She is survived by her four children; Susan (Michael) Koprowski of Boulder Colorado, Sally (Reginald) Oak, of Orleans, MA, Peter (Joan) Barnum of Holderness, NH and Seth (Sherry) Barnum of Saratoga Springs, N.Y. ; eight grandchildren Brittany, Andrea, Whitney, Brion, Seth, Sam, Faith, Sarah and one great-granddaughter Alice.
There will be no calling hours and private services will be held at a later time.