Sadly, on Dec. 21 last year we lost one of our B-W neighbors, Vivian “Gayle” Phillips. She and her husband, Dennis, were walking to Beaumont Village for a little last-minute holiday shopping when they were both struck by a car while crossing NE Fremont at 44th.
Dennis spent the next month in the hospital recovering as he mourned the death of his wife. This tragedy occurred on the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year. This means it is very dark during the evening commute, creating visibility challenges for pedestrians and vehicles alike.
On the one-year anniversary of Gayle’s death, we will hold a candlelight vigil at that fateful intersection. As we remember Gayle, we will also bring attention to this busy corridor and the need for caution as pedestrians cross to find their way to our businesses and neighborhoods.
All are invited to the vigil. Please bring a candle, lantern, or light and meet on the NW corner of NE Fremont and 44th Avenue at 5:15 pm. Dennis will say a few words before we line each side of Fremont, light our lights and/or candles, and hold a moment of silence at 5:30 p.m.—the time the accident occurred last year.
You are invited to a Candlelight Vigil in Remembrance of Vivian “Gayle” Phillips
Wednesday, December 21, 2022 5:15 pm – 5:45 pm NE 44th and NE Fremont Street
Bring a candle, lantern, or light
BWNA Board President Patty Nelson is a native NE Portlander. With her husband she’s logged 31 years in B-W, raising two girls and four dogs. When not working as an engineer, Patty enjoys walking her dogs, hiking, and sewing.