Arts Activist Lois Pearson Osborn Dies

Lois Person Osborn, a trustee for the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art and longtime activist who organized well-received art exhibitions throughout Southern California, died Thursday at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla. She was 76.

A son, Robert Osborn of Reno, Nev., said Friday that his mother died about 11:45 p.m. Thursday, apparently of internal complications caused by a broken hip suffered two weeks ago.

Gordon Hampton, a trustee for the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles and a longtime friend of Osborn, said the La Jolla resident will be remembered for her efforts and modesty in sponsoring art exhibits from Pasadena to San Diego.

“Lois was one of the unsung heroes of the contemporary art world from Southern California,” Hampton said. “She was a collector of substance, and she was an inspiration to all who were supportive of her.”

An official speaking for the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art but requesting anonymity said, “She’s going to be sorely missed. She was a hard-working, well-respected lady. She didn’t want any recognition for anything she did. Lois was loved and respected, and was a great lady to work with.”

Active Since 1941

A native of Nebraska, Osborn had been affiliated since 1941 with the Art Center in La Jolla, which 30 years later became the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art. During her long stint with the museum, Osborn served as a chairwoman of publications and exhibitions, and was active on numerous ad hoc committees.

She played a prominent role in the formation of the Fellows of Contemporary Art in 1975, serving on the group’s board of directors. The organization includes some 350 volunteers active throughout Southern California, all involved in sponsoring exhibits displaying contemporary art.

In addition, Osborn was active outside the art world, particularly in charity functions, according to her son. She was a member of the Junior League of San Diego. She was also a member of the Social Service League of La Jolla, which helped organize charity events.

Osborn moved to Long Beach with her family in 1920. After growing up there, she went to the University of Southern California, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in sociology. After graduating from USC, Osborn worked with residents in the Watts area of Los Angeles.

Osborn is survived by her husband of 51 years, George; three children, Robert, David of Borrego Springs, and Jean Day of Echo, Ore.; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

The family plans a private memorial service.