Mary Anne Dwellingham

Mary Anne (Mueller) Dwellingham November 7, 1951 – April 18, 2025 Mary Anne (Mueller) Dwellingham, lovingly known as “Tik,” passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025, at the age of 73. Born in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Harry and Aileen Mueller, Mary Anne brought warmth, creativity, and joy to all who knew her. Mary Anne's journey began in Michigan, where she graduated from Mercy High School in Farmington Hills in 1969. She continued her education at Marygrove College in Detroit, earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in theater arts—a foundation that would shape her lifelong passion for the performing arts. The early 1980s brought an exciting chapter as Mary Anne made her way to New York City, the heart of American theater. There, she built a successful career in finance, spending decades with Manufacturers Hanover Trust in their factoring division. Her dedication to both her professional life and artistic pursuits led her to further her education, earning a Master of Fine Arts in costume and stage design from William Paterson College in New Jersey. Mary Anne's artistic spirit flourished in New York's vibrant cultural scene. She became engaged with Opera Ensemble NY, participating in way off Broadway productions and out-of-town testing to determine whether musical revivals should make the leap to Broadway. It was during these dynamic years in New York City that Mary Anne met the love of her life, Herschel E. Dwellingham, Sr. Their connection was forged through shared appreciation for jazz, as Mary Anne had many gigs as a jazz singer throughout the city. This musical partnership deepened both personally and professionally—Mary Anne was particularly proud of her "Cry Me A River" CD, where she served as executive producer and performed ten beautiful and well-known jazz standards. Herschel conducted, arranged, and produced this recording for Starr-Barr Productions through Tik Records, with manufacturing and distribution handled by Music Magic Inc. in New York. These twin passions—theater and jazz—became the defining threads of her rich and purposeful life. Mary Anne remained devoted to her beloved husband until his passing in 2023, their partnership a testament to a love story that began among the bright lights and endless possibilities of New York City's artistic community. Mary Anne was a sister to Sally (the late Mike) Pettinger, Harry S. (the late Julie) Mueller, Patricia O'Connor, John (Julia) Mueller, Nancy Schneider, and Julie (Ken) McDougall. She is also lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. A woman of remarkable talent Mary Anne’s memory will be held close by those who were fortunate to share in her laughter, her stories, and her song. A gathering of family and friends will take place on July 14th at Holy Family Church, 24505 Meadowbrook Road, Novi, Michigan, beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Liturgy at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield, Michigan. In celebration of her life, may we all remember her enduring grace, artistic soul, and the music she brought into the world.

Mary Anne Dwellingham

November 7, 1951 - April 18, 2025