Millie Gallo loved art and life. Those who knew her could attest to her seemingly endless supply of energy and enthusiasm. The longtime Los Altos Hills resident made friends as naturally as breathing and seemed as comfortable around strangers as with lifelong friends.

Mrs. Gallo died unexpectedly Sept. 19 while vacationing in Mexico.

She was born Oct. 8, 1924, in New York to the late Dr. Samuel and Anna Cohen.

Mrs. Gallo displayed a talent and love for art from virtually the beginning of life. She was a prolific artist who began sketching in school at age 6 and in subways at 16. She received a fine arts diploma from high school, then attended the acclaimed Art Students League in Manhattan.

Mrs. Gallo moved to San Carlos in 1953 and to Los Altos Hills in 1965. She was active in many local organizations, including the Los Altos Art Club, the Sunnyvale Art Club and the Westbay Iris Society. Mrs. Gallo also volunteered for numerous organizations, including TheatreWorks in Palo Alto and the Bus Barn Stage Company in Los Altos.

In addition to being an artist, Mrs. Gallo loved to dance and was often seen out on the town kicking up her heels with her longtime companion, fellow artist and dance partner, Harlan Howard.

“With a quick wit and irrepressible zest for life, Millie was involved and engaged in life to the end,” Howard said.

Reflecting on Mrs. Gallo, Howard wrote: “Wanted: A mature woman who can cook, sew, barber, an artist, sculptor, ceramist, music lover, dancer, singer, dance teacher, horticulturalist, … friendly, loving, passionate, adventurous … and would love me unconditionally forever.”

Mrs. Gallo is survived by her two sons, Robin Gallo of Aptos and Paul Gallo of Cupertino; her brother and sister, Harvey Cohen of New York and Rosalind Streicher of Florida; and longtime companion Howard.

Private family services were held under the direction of the Los Altos Chapel of Spangler Mortuaries.

A memorial service will be held for family and friends 1-4 p.m. Saturday at the Shoup Park Garden House, 400 University Ave., Los Altos.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in her memory to the charity of your choice.