RUMFORD — A woman known for filling her family’s home with books, music, puzzles and artwork will be honored when the Pennacook Art Center opens its new show Friday.

Jeannette Heath, 78, sold the first painting when the art center opened nearly a decade ago. She died of Alzheimer’s disease almost a year ago.

Family, friends and caregivers are expected to attend the opening and relate memories of Heath at 6 p.m. The show takes place from 5 to 7 p.m.

“We thought her art was really cool,” daughter Robin Doloff said. “But we didn’t understand how good it was at the time. She was a nature and animal lover and many of her paintings were of these.”

Daughter Heidi Heath said she was thrilled the center was honoring her mother.

“I’m sure my mother would be thrilled, too. She was an inspiration to her children and grandchildren,” Heath said.

Jeannette Heath’s two sons are also expected to attend.

Their mother painted in oils and watercolors and had sold many of her artworks. Some of her originals will be on display at the reception, but not for sale.

Instead, a number of prints of her works will be for sale on the art center’s website, http://pennacook-art-center.artistwebsites.com.

All proceeds from such sales between Dec. 2 and 15 will benefit Androscoggin Health Care & Hospice.

In addition to landscapes, animal and nature scenes, Heath also painted finely detailed still lifes. She often painted outside in nature, as well, said Betsy Bell, director of the Pennacook Art Center.

Besides Heath’s works, paintings and photography by Pennacook Art Center members will also be on display or for sale.

Heath was born in Mexico, graduated from Mexico High School, and worked in the banking industry and Towle’s Hardware for many years.

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