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Merilynne Evans
News
Today brought the very sad news of the death of Merilynne Evans, a long-serving and much-loved former member of the Gallery whānau.
Merilynne joined the Robert McDougall Art Gallery staff on 29 July 1981, made the shift to the new Gallery when it opened in 2003 and retired in March 2011. She ran the Gallery’s shop in both buildings like a well-oiled machine, and her friendly and familiar presence behind the counter made her a firm favourite with many of our regular visitors. Merilynne also coordinated many publications for the Gallery during her time here, bringing to bear her formidable organisational powers and eye for detail. She is especially remembered for her warmth, humour and many acts of kindness – as demonstrated by the batch of scones she came in early to make in order to celebrate each staff member’s birthday (cheese or date, depending on your preference – both equally delicious). We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Merilynne’s family and friends.
![Merilynne was famous for her scones. This batch was made in September 1999, photographed by Brendan Lee.](/media/cache/c6/c2/c6c225c5f4085171e7efdfc608b4804e.jpg)
Merilynne was famous for her scones. This batch was made in September 1999, photographed by Brendan Lee.