Who was Mary Horner Lyell?

Mary Horner Lyell (1808–1873) was the wife and close companion of the Scottish geologist Charles Lyell. The daughter of a man with geological interests, she shared her husband's scientific pursuits and was able to actively participate in his work throughout their 40-year marriage.1

She frequently traveled with Charles on his geological explorations across Europe and Britain, providing him with support and companionship during his research. Her death in 1873, after a short illness, was a profound loss for Charles, who noted that he struggled to find comfort in his work following her passing.21