In a heartfelt tribute, the Morristown community gathered to celebrate the life of a remarkable leader whose impact resonated deeply within the town. The service, held at 11:00 AM in Arizona, honored a woman who dedicated her life to fostering inclusivity and progress in Morristown.
Having moved to Morristown at the age of 78, she quickly became a pillar of the community. Her legacy includes a rich tapestry of accomplishments that reflect her commitment to social justice and education. Notably, she established the first integrated Girl Scout troop in Morris County in 1952, paving the way for future generations.
As a founder of the Koretz organization in 1959, she played a crucial role in providing scholarships and social activities for African American high school teachers, demonstrating her dedication to education and community empowerment. Her influence extended to the Morristown School District Board of Education, where she made history as the first African American elected to the board. Her leadership continued as she was appointed to the State Board of Education by Governor Byrne and later elected to the Morristown Town Council, where she served as both president and vice president.
In 1989, she made a valiant bid for mayor, losing by a narrow margin of just 95 votes, a testament to her popularity and the respect she garnered from her peers. Her commitment to community safety was evident through her role as secretary of the neighborhood watch group and her active participation in the concerned citizens of the second ward, ensuring that African American residents were informed about critical issues affecting their quality of life.
Her involvement extended beyond local initiatives; she was a dedicated member of the Morris County Urban League, Morris County Fair Housing Council, NAACP, and the League of Women Voters, among other organizations. Each of these roles underscored her unwavering dedication to creating a more equitable society.
As the community reflects on her extraordinary contributions, it is clear that her spirit and commitment to service will continue to inspire future generations in Morristown and beyond.