Her passing brought full circle a life that started in Philadelphia in 1938 and completed a life that left footprints wherever she went. She grew up in Rosemont where she attended The Agnes Irwin School, Westover School, later attending Smith College and graduating from San Diego State University. She was an avid athlete competing in field hockey, lacrosse, and all racquet sports. A 60-year member of the Merion Cricket Club, she thrived on competition and enjoyed the camaraderie she found on the paddle, squash and tennis courts. It was her love of paddle that left an early mark on the Philadelphia-area platform tennis scene. A founding member of MAPTA in the ’60s, her love for the game coupled with great organizational and promotional skills helped grow the new sport locally at both the club and junior levels. Her horticultural skills were cultivated while helping her mother, Leila Patterson, tend to their beloved gardens in Rosemont. She was a graduate of Barnes Horticulture Program and a 55+ year member of the Garden Club of Philadelphia. As a GCA-approved judge, she was able to share her knowledge with other enthusiasts. In 1975 she co-founded the Shipley Sprouts horticulture program at the Shipley School where she gave of her time for over 35 years. She shared her knowledge and love of plants with students who competed annually in the esteemed Philadelphia Flower Show, earning ribbons and accolades. She volunteered her time generously and enthusiastically at the Jenkins Arboretum, Bryn Mawr Beautification, served as president of the Milldam Club, and captained multiple racquets teams. Her many passions included a love of photography, birding, fishing, traveling, canoeing, camping, swimming in the ocean, and actively being with her family. She was the loving wife of the late Robert Peck, cherished mother to Leila Safford (Tom) and Amy Milanek (Blaise), adored Mema to Brian Safford (Anna), Scotty Safford (Emily), Leila Avery Safford, Blaise Milanek, Cassie Milanek, Spencer Milanek and Great-Mema to Sylvie Safford. She is survived by her sister, Eleanora Patterson (Gordon) and David Patterson (Deborah). Funeral services will be held on Jan 6 at the Church of Redeemer, Bryn Mawr at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Shipley Sprouts (Shipleyschool.org) and Jenkins Arboretum and Gardens (Jenkinsarboretum.org)
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18