Mary-Anne Hall

New London — Mary-Anne Hall (Sheflott), 83, died peacefully Feb. 21, 2021, at her historic home with her children by her bedside. Mary-Anne was born Oct. 15, 1937, in New London the daughter of Helen Gilmore and Leonard Sheflott.

She was predeceased by her parents; and siblings, George, Ina and Leonard. Mary-Anne is survived by son Steven Hall (Marie) of Coventry; daughter Charmian Valante (Michael) of Westport; and grandchildren Austin Hall, Claire Hall, Olivia Valante and Kate Valante.

Mary-Anne’s childhood nickname, “Happy,” stuck with her through the years. Mary-Anne grew up to be a beautiful, intelligent and creative soul. While in her teens, she modeled in New York City. Thereafter, she went to California to attend college.

Mary-Anne met her husband, George Hall, at San Francisco State University, where she received degrees in Art and Art History. She joined the thriving artist community of Northern California in the 1960s. After her divorce, Mary-Anne returned to New London to raise her children.

Mary-Anne began her career as an art teacher at Kelly Jr. High School while also working at The Bit of San Francisco, a restaurant co-owned by her sister, Ina. Mary-Anne then moved onto the workplace she would dedicate her life to, and where she found her greatest professional joy — the Norwich Free Academy. She taught art and was the docent of the Slater Museum. Mary-Anne also led NFA’s Saturday Children’s Art Classes, inspiring young artists for over four decades.

Mary-Anne was an active artist and member of the Mystic Art Association. She was also a gifted writer who published the history of the Slater Museum and wrote a children’s book, “Cleocatra,” illustrated by her honorary son, Brian Boyce.

Mary-Anne will be remembered for her love of the arts, immense knowledge, empathy for others, good humor and warm friendship. Condolences may be shared on Mrs. Hall’s memorial page at www.neilanfuneralhome.com.