City Councilwoman Judy Barnett Dies
A founding member of incorporated Maryland Heights has died, according to fellow city councilmen.
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A member of the Maryland Heights City Council who helped the city incorporate in its early days, has died. City Councilwoman Judy Barnett died Saturday, Feb. 5.
Barnett represented Maryland Heights’ Ward Two, along with Ed Dirck, according to the city’s website.
Councilman Chuck Caverly of Ward Three said he found out about Barnett’s passing after Mayor Mike Moeller called him Saturday afternoon. Moeller heard from Barnett’s husband, Caverly said, who then alerted the other city council members.
Caverly said Barnett was dedicated to Maryland Heights and had a lot of institutional knowledge. She did some great things with the department of parks and recreation, he said.
Councilman Jim Carver of Ward Four said she was a tremendous asset to the city.
“We wouldn’t have some of the things we have today if it wasn’t for her,” Carver said.
A phone call to city spokesperson Sara Berry was not immediately returned. An email from Berry said the city would release a statement early Monday morning.
Update, 9:34 a.m.: The City of Maryland Heights issued a press release saying Barnett died of a "prolonged illness." She served more than 17 years on the city council, according to the release. The city will hold a memorial service at the Maryland Heights Government Center on Feb. 14 at 11:00 a.m.
craig cuddeback
11:00 am on Monday, February 7, 2011
I was there from the early stages and can say, without reservation, that there would be no city of Maryland Heights without Judy Barnett. While I don't know where the original idea to incorporate came from, I do know that Judy was the lead and drove the process publicly and behind the scenes. Not to say that important contributions weren't made by many others. Without some of those contributions, the effort for incorporation would have failed as well and they should be recognized for those contributions. But simply put, Judy was the glue that held it together, managed the complexity of players, egos, and competing interests that resulted in victory. She should be recognized, honored, and remembered accordingly regardless of the politics.
R Merschen
12:19 pm on Monday, February 7, 2011
We are so very sorry to hear of Judy's passing. She really cared for and about our community. She will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family. God bless Judy.
Kim
9:47 pm on Monday, February 7, 2011
Can't say enough good things about Judy; she was one of a kind and will be sorely missed.
Liz
10:44 pm on Monday, February 7, 2011
I was so sorry to read this on Maryland Hts Patch. All the petty little problems I pounced on her because she was always there for my calls about trees and deer and keep the area green. I am so sorry I couldn't have said some good things when there was still time. We will miss her availability to the city and people. Liz Keeler and family