The founder of a 50-year-old second-hand market has passed away at the age of 93.
Mary Shiner died peacefully on Friday morning after a lifetime of work at the popular Shambles Market in Stroud, which showcases the best of vintage and second-hand haberdashery, fabric and wool.
A post on the Vintage Mary Facebook page from Abi Fisk read: “I’m very sorry to have to share our sad news with you, that Vintage Mary good friend to us all, the kindest and most amazing creator of Stroud’s 50-year-old second-hand Shambles Market, died peacefully on Friday morning.
“Always totally inspiring, we will sorely miss her warmth, love, laughter
and the big cheery smile as she welcomed everyone to Vintage Mary’s
totally unique and very special market. Vintage Mary – we share all her love
of the market with you all.”
Heartfelt tributes have flowed since the news broke, Stroud MP Simon Opher said: “I was very sorry to hear about Mary’s death last week.
“She was the very best of Stroud – positive and caring, and way ahead of her time commercially. Her Monday morning market became a Stroud institution and she will be much missed.
“All love to her family and friends. I would say customers, but they were all her friends too.”
Made In Stroud founder Clare Honeyfield said: “So sorry to hear this very sad news. Much love to all of Mary’s family and loved ones at this very sad time.”
Denise Sparrow, owner of Fourteen Lifestyles said: “I’m so sad to hear this. Such a lovely lady and will be massively missed.”
Artist Lucy Gale said: “Sending love to all those grieving this big loss…. Mary was a really important part of Stroud history. She will be sadly missed, but her inspiration and influence will live on.”
Lisa Hooper from Moonflower said: “So sorry to read this. What an amazing lady Mary was in so many ways. Sending love to you all.”
Ron Birch said: “I haven’t lived in Stroud for ten years but was at Mary’s stall every Friday for years prior to leaving. What a lovely lady and a community asset. I hope the stall continues.”
Annie Blick said:” If you took a slice of Mary’s heart it would read ‘Love Stroud’ all the way through. She will join the hall of absolute illustrious Stroud legends – RIP.”
