Mary Travis

Mary Burem Slayton Travis, 86, of Abilene, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 22,2025. A Celebration of Life honoring Mary will be announced at a later date.

Mary was born on December 9, 1938, in Alabama, to J.J. and Ruth Slayton, and was raised in Lake Jackson, Texas. She graduated from Brazosport High School in 1957, an in 1963 earned her bachelor's degree in Interior Design from the University of Houston.

On November 22, 1959, she married Dr. Zane Travis, the love of her life. Together they moved to Abilene in 1964, and for more than six decades, Mary and Zane shared their lives with a community they cherished. Their life there was anchored not only in family and friendship but also in their faithful attendance at church, where their worship and fellowship strengthened them through the years.

Mary's gifts as an artist were remarkable. An elegant and creative spirit, Mary was an accomplished painter whose artistic vision was sharp, original, and deeply expressive. Her love of the arts reached beyond her own canvas - she was actively involved in Abilene Philharmonic Guild, serving on its board, and was honored as its Great Dame at the 2017 High Society Ball. She also poured her time and talents into many cultural and civic organization, including the Junior League of Abilene, the National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature, the Center for Contemporary Arts, and The Grace Museum. Mary shared her gift of artistry with friends and fellow painters, and her work continues to reflect the beauty she saw in the world around her.

While her art was her greatest calling, Mary embraced other passions as well. She ran marathons with Zane in 1979 and 1986, and from 1993-1997 she was nationally and state ranked as a senior ladies' doubles tennis player. She also poured her creativity into business, opening Holly's Dress Shop with her dear friends Holly Frizzell and Pat Thompson.

Above all, Mary was devoted to her family. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Dr. Zane Travis; her children, Suzanne Travis and David Travis with his wife Sally; her grandchildren, Sam Travis, Kate Travis, Brett Holcomb, and Laura Holcomb; and her great-grandchildren, Zane Travis Holcomb.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to dear friends and honorary family members Moses Martinez and Esmie Paredez, who love and care brought Mary great comfort.

Mary will be remembered as an elegant and creative woman, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and fried. She lived with faith, generosity, and a deep appreciation for beauty. As artist Georgia O'Keeffe once said, "Filling a space in a beautiful way. That is what art means to me." Mary filled her life, and lives of those around her, with beauty, faith, and love.