Drawing on her background as a registered nurse and aerobics instructor, she did just that. While Mary Ann’s target audience remained those needing slow movement, her gentle voice, fun music selections, and unique movements unexpectedly attracted a younger audience, who grew up exercising with her. 

She was called by some, the “Fred Rogers of fitness.” Like Mr. Rogers, Mary Ann’s nearly four-decade career as a television personality gave her the opportunity to be a role model for viewers of all ages.

Donating her time to outreach events was important to Mary Ann. She visited local retirement communities, senior centers and assisted care facilities to encourage and educate residents about simple things they could do to stay independent and strong. She lit up the room with her passionate message and made sure that each person attending felt special and important.

Mary Ann also devoted time to help train and mentor other fitness instructors and activity staff at senior living facilities throughout the community and country. She was eager to share resources, exercise tips, and the latest research in healthy aging with colleagues. She regularly donated videos, DVDs and print material to facilities, instructors and viewers.

Her generosity knew no bounds.