Click here for a larger view of this letter.

November 28, 2001

Family of Mrs. Mary Kay Ash
C/o Mr. Richard Rogers — Chief Executive Officer
Mary Kay, Inc.
16251 North Dallas Parkway
Addison, Texas 75001

Greetings:

It is with extreme reverence that I pause and pay tribute today to a quintessential testament of the American “can-do” spirit — Mrs. Mary Kay Ash. As a proud Texan, a woman of integrity, strength and generosity, she gave unselfishly of her time to others. It is also fitting on this occasion to express my sentiments of praise and words of gratitude for Mary's many years of dedicated service for the betterment of women in not only American society, but the international community-at-large.

In 1963 Mary launched Mary Kay Inc. with only $5000 and nine sales consultants. At a time when men primarily dominated the American workforce, she embarked upon a journey to make a positive difference in the professional and personal lives of women. By equipping women with the tools and support needed for both business and personal success; Mary helped spark a progressive, unprecedented movement for women. Today, Mary Kay Inc. is the [second] largest direct-sales cosmetics company with over 800,000 sales consultants in 37 countries and generates $1.3 billion in annual sales. Although the aforementioned will certainly serve as an extraordinary legacy to its namesake, the hope and inspiration spread to generations of women as a result of Mary's unprecedented feats will never be forgotten.

To the family, I am certain that my mere words alone could not possibly attempt to address your loss, but find comfort in knowing that Mary will live within the hearts of countless individuals whom she has touched throughout her entire life of faithful service. I am honored to have known such a remarkable person, American hero and Texas trailblazer — Mrs. Mary Kay Ash.

Sincerely,
Eddie Bernice Johnson
Member of Congress