In Remembrance of Sara Gregory
Susan Klein, NH Sunday Vigil and GNH Peace Council
Sara Kane Gregory, 58 years old, died at her home in New Haven on Jan. 4, 2016. She was born in Baltimore, MD, spent her teenage years in Naples, Fla, and earned a Masters of Education from the University of New Hampshire.
Sara with OccupyNH on the Green (Paula Panzarella photo)
Confined to a wheelchair after a car accident 25 years ago, Sara was known to hundreds here as a friend, a fellow activist, and an inspiration. In fact, she refused to be confined, going wherever she chose via public transportation, van, bus and train, despite difficulties with access. She even swam 3-4 times every week, in every season. Sara could recall choosing to live while in a coma after the accident, and live she did, to the utmost, with fierce independence and determination; she wanted no one to feel sorry for her.
Sara was an enthusiastic participant in political meetings, marches and rallies, in CT, in NY, in DC, and was particularly involved with Occupy New Haven in 2011 and 2012 visiting the encampment on the Green almost every day. She was passionate about peace, justice and equality, and never hesitated to speak her mind for all to hear. She voted in every election.
A great reader, Sara’s favorite authors included Dickens, Hardy, George Eliot and Jane Austen. She indulged in incisive, thoughtful literary and philosophical discussions at every opportunity. She also loved cats, drinking tea and baking bread. Sara had a deep and lasting influence on those lucky enough to know her; this vibrant and feisty woman will be sorely missed. Her family asks that you kindly donate a book to your local library in remembrance of Sara.
Sara was an inspiration to all who were lucky enough to cross her path in life. We first met at the Albertus Magnus pool, where she awed my children with the lift she used to enter and exit the pool. She engaged my youngest in a swimming race across the pool. We later met at High School in the Community where she worked in the Main Office when my older children attended high school. She was always passionate about life and about helping others. Students and faculty were drawn to her. Sara used a wheelchair, but she was far more able than most of the other people around her, including those who walk from place to place. Sara was always teaching. Her presence exuded dignity and strength to the many human rights struggles she actively supported. We crossed paths many times and I will miss her. We donated books to the library at the school my youngest attends in her memory. I offer my condolences to her family and friends.