Tributes and expressions of sympathy were heard around the country for the acclaimed illustrator and children’s author who delighted multiple generations with his books.

Among the green-trimmed houses on High street in Edgartown, Norman Bridwell’s home sticks out. The shutters and doors are bright red. And in the window hangs a paper-sized illustration of a familiar dog —a big, red dog to be exact.

“Red has been good to me,” said Mr. Bridwell (84) at his home last week.

They are both artists, both Indiana natives who met in New York city although today Norma and Norman Bridwell are more closely associated with Edgartown and their home on High street with the red shutters where they have lived since 1969.

They have two grown children. Oh, and don’t forget Clifford. He’s the big red dog that Norman Bridwell created 45 years ago in what would become his award-winning children’s book series. The Bridwells celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Friday, June 13. They call it their lucky day.