When I think about Beige, it’s always with a smile. Talking to her was always a pleasure. Whether it was something work-related, or at the lunch table, Beige was always so good-natured, upbeat, funny, kind, and generous.

When Beige joined the staff at the City Planning Commission, she had a hard act to follow; her predecessor had been very well-liked. Who was this new young woman with the curious name? But she soon impressed all with her quiet competence, and we learned she had a pet rabbit!

Then Dave and I discovered a surprising connection: Beige and Mike had gone to St Johnsbury Academy, the same school where my parents met in the 1930s. In 2009, along with other friends from the Planning Commission, we attended Beige and Mike’s wedding in Vermont. We still have the commemorative beer glass.

When we were working on the Philadelphia district plans, Beige had a major role in developing the focus areas for each district, and she also was the one who pulled together all the pieces into a handsome product. It was not an easy task, with so many people coming to her for last-minute tweaks and changes, but she managed it with grace and patience.

Beige was always making things. She made me a beautiful purple scarf. She brought cookies to the lunch table, made with lavender or with Earl Grey tea. I got my favorite cookie recipe from Beige, and I make a big batch every Christmas to send some to my brothers and sisters.

We send love and condolences to Mike, Nina, Beige’s parents, and all those who will miss her most.