The founder of The Zoo Gallery earned her BA from Auburn University. After graduating, Roxie returned to Fort Walton Beach to teach art at Choctawhatchee High School before opening The Zoo Gallery in 1979. She later continued her studies at Florida State University’s College of Fine Arts while successfully operating the gallery for decades.

Roxie is known for her vivid depictions of wildlife from around the world. A dedicated animal rights advocate, she believes in the harmonious coexistence of humans and animals — a message central to her work.

Pictured with her is her right-hand man, Walter — the rescue dog who, as she likes to say, rescued her.