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In Memoriam

In Memoriam Mary Nobles Conrad 1935-2023

Mary Conrad, along with her husband, Barnaby, made a positive impact on the lives of thousands of aspiring writers through

In Memoriam Mary Nobles Conrad 1935-2023

Mary Conrad, along with her husband, Barnaby, made a positive impact on the lives of thousands of aspiring writers through their founding of the Santa Barbara Writers Conference, a weeklong gathering of famous writers and eager students that recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Mary possessed a style and deep wisdom that was hers alone and that lasted for nearly nine decades. She had a magnetic personality, a lovely voice, and a gracious soul. She was elegant and generous, and her wit was legendary.

Born February 28, 1935, to a prominent family in Pasadena, California, in her youth, she was a horsewoman and an avid tennis player. She was ranked in California for 16-and-under tennis players and enjoyed following the sport throughout her life.

Mary Conrad with Barnaby at home at the Rincon | Credit: Courtesy Matthew J. Pallamary