In Memory of Barbara Sandford

Barbara Sandford, Arbor Day 2009

Word has come that Barbara Sandford, Plainfield's foremost advocate of beautification, has passed away at her New Hampshire home.

A Plainfield Garden Club member since 1950, Barbara shared her knowledge and talents with the community at large, not only advising officials on beautification but taking a hands-on role in doing the work. I first saw Barbara about 30 years ago, up on the embankment by the main train station, pulling weeds. Her patrician looks contrasted with a practicality and purpose that was an example for anybody who loved the city. She applied both charm and persuasiveness to getting what she needed from Public Works, whether it was watering plants with a tanker truck or helping with the heaviest work.

Barbara was one of the original members of the Shade Tree Commission and had much advice to give. She also shared memories of her anti-litter work, recalling parades where she dressed as "Auntie Litter" to advocate for a clean city.

She abhorred roadside billboards and became president of Scenic New Jersey to fight their proliferation. In 2000, she protested the removal of trees from the Blue Star Memorial Highway Drive to make way for development.

Barbara was a strong supporter of the electoral process and a longtime member of the League of Women Voters of Plainfield.

For all these efforts and more, she will be remembered by Plainfielders.

Her family has announced a memorial service to be held in Plainfield on Saturday, November 16 to celebrate her 95th birthday (November 14th).  at 1 p.m. in Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church, followed by a reception in the Guild Room.

منشورة في: