By Marty Devine | mdevine@alextimes.com

After 40 years in the framing business, esteemed local artist Todd Healy closed the doors to his studio, Gallery Lafayette, for the last time on Sept. 19.

At the end of the business day, many of Healy’s friends, longtime customers and neighboring business owners gathered outside his storefront at the corner of South Royal and Price streets to surprise Healy and his wife, Laraine, with a toast. They presented a bouquet of flowers to Laraine and gave Healy a framed photo.

Fontaine Cafe provided sparkling wine for the occasion. The surprise toast was planned by Leah Donahue and Joanna Szczerban, the owners of Boxwood; Martha Hurley and others from Sara Campbell; and the partners at two law firms on the block, James D. Turner and Shannon Mullins & Wright.

Former Mayor Allison Silberberg said Healy has made a mark on Alexandria.

“[He was a] recognized and treasured part of our city for 40 years,” Silberberg said. “His craftsmanship and artistic eye are known around the country, but Old Town has been his base and muse for 40 years. His daily presence will certainly be missed.”

As he was packing up his shop on Tuesday, Healy said he loved being in business in Alexandria.

“I pray that I didn’t take more than I gave,” he said.