July 28 – On this day in Montana history in 1972 Fanny Cory Cooney died at age 94 after a long and fruitful career as one of the nation’s favorite illustrators and artists. Her nationally syndicated daily “Sonnysayings” and “Little Miss Muffet” cartoon adventure series were loved by readers across the country. But one of her highest honors, she said, was being named Montana Mother of the year in 1951. She also found time with her husband Fred to raise three children on their ranch near Canyon Ferry near Helena.