A Legacy of Love: Mary Tyler Moore's Jewelry Auction

On December 1, twenty-one exquisite pieces of jewelry once owned by the beloved TV star Mary Tyler Moore will be auctioned off. This special event aims to support the Mary Tyler Moore Vision Initiative, a charity dedicated to preserving and restoring vision in diabetics. Dr. S. Robert Levine, her devoted widower, shares his heartfelt thoughts about this decision. "I could have chosen to just lock all these precious pieces in a safe and occasionally sit with them, reminiscing and shedding a tear," he says. "But I decided to give them new life, allowing them to serve a greater purpose."

Among the items up for auction are stunning watches, elegant necklaces, and even some pieces that Mary herself designed. Dr. Levine reflects on his late wife's battle with type 1 diabetes and how losing her eyesight was one of the hardest challenges she faced. "By 2012 and 2013, Mary struggled to navigate safely in low light or without assistance," he explains. Despite this hardship, Robert emphasizes that most diabetes-related blindness can now be prevented with modern medical advancements. "It was truly Mary's dream that future generations wouldn't have to endure the same struggles she faced," he adds.

Continuing Mary's Legacy Through Philanthropy

Dr. Levine believes that auctioning off these cherished items will not only bring joy to others but also honor Mary's legacy. "Each piece has a story, and now they'll find new homes where they can continue to inspire and delight," he says. The proceeds from the auction will fund vital research and initiatives aimed at combating diabetes-related vision loss. By choosing to share these treasures, Dr. Levine ensures that Mary's passion for helping others lives on.