Lory Brown

Lory Brown grew up in New York State and became a registered nurse in 1972. Nursing provided her an opportunity to travel and work in England and South Africa. In 1978, she completed a course in midwifery and worked for six years in obstetrics nursing. Lory met Tom Hess, her husband of 35 years and joined him in starting Hess Pottery in Reeds Spring, Missouri. In 1985, opting for a less stressful lifestyle, Lory left nursing to pursue pine needle basket making full time. Her baskets and Tom's pottery complimented each other in their shop and at various art fairs around the country. Lory's love for fine detail and high quality permeated her work. Over the years Lory perfected her technique, selecting her materials carefully to produce heirloom pieces that can be passed down through generations. This perfection crossed over into her love of sewing, baking and all she created. People knew Lory for her many acts of kindness, her love of laughter and fun. She was loved by her family and friends and leaves many wonderful memories of gatherings and fun times together. She strived for healthy living, mindful well being, and minimizing her impact on this earth. Lory's pureness of heart is an inspiration to those that came to know her. According to her wishes, Lory has been cremated under the direction of Adams funeral Home, Nixa.