This oil painting was the work of Lolita Ruth Collette Hilliard of Parsons. Lolita was the daughter of Maurie Jay and Hazel Ferguson Collette. The Collette Family lived on a farm in Kerns. Lolita (1908-1997) married in 1926 to Milliard Earl Hilliard (1902-1991). They had two sons: John (deceased now) and Milliard (lives in Missouri). Lolita graduated from Parsons High School and was considered one of the most beautiful girls of the school. In the 1930’s, Lolita decided she wanted to study art so she took classes from Eula Dean. Lolita started off working in charcoal and then went on to oils. As you can tell, she was very accomplished. So much so that one of her paintings was purchased and given to a Hollywood Actress. Lolita would give many of her paintings away and she also sold some. She continued to paint and draw well into her old age. Ideas or comments contact Tim Turner (304) 478-3389.
