Polly Chase

1935 - 2016

Polly Chase

Merritt Island

Polly Chase, 81, died September 29, 2016. She was born on July 7, 1935 in Groton MA to Marion F. McGrath and William J. Chase. Polly graduated from Pepperell HS as Class President, Bridgewater State University (BS), Wesleyan University (MALS), and later received an honorary Litt. D. Dr. Chase was an educator for 38 years in Wallingford CT, Groton and Chelmsford MA, and was an adjunct professor at Fisher Jr. College. She taught English, creative writing, American Studies, psychology, and later in her career practiced as a guidance counselor.

Polly conceptualized and co-authored curriculums for grades 7-12 produced by major publishers. Her fellowships included studies at Boston University, Dartmouth College, and a Fulbright scholarship to lndia. As a writer, prolific poet, editor of medical textbooks and more, Polly's works have been published in various literary magazines and anthologies of poetry, earning honors and awards for literary achievements too numerous to mention. She was a member of many national and world councils, societies, academies, museums and was chosen for the dedication of Poet's Corner at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine (NY, 1985).

An accomplished artist, Polly painted in oils and water colors, and enjoyed sculpting in stone, wood and metal. She took pleasure in attending the theater, opera, concerts, museums, and travelling around the world.

After moving to Merritt Island, FL in 2001, Polly belonged to Red Hats, Newcomers, poetry clubs, the Mermaids, and the Women's Group. She loved cats, reading, gardening and birding, and was an avid swimmer, downhill skier and tennis player. Polly was most proud of her two daughters, Jacqueline P. Cleary and Margaret Cleary Crowder as well as her son-in-law Jeffrey R. Crowder and three beloved grandchildren Alec C. Beach, Briana P. Crowder and Kieron C. Crowder, and leaves her companion of 43 years, Marilyn G. Light (Mel).

A memorial reception is TBA at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National Women's History Museum (NWHM), 205 West Whiting Street, Suite 254, Alexandria, VA 22304 or to Merritt island Wildlife Association (MIWA), P.O. Box 2683, Titusville, FL 32781. Indicate in memory of Polly Chase.