Adeline Kathleen Arnold

SPARTA - Adeline Kathleen Arnold, 89, died Friday, Jan. 3, 2014, at home with her family. A devoted wife, loving mother and proud grandmother, Adeline spent 48 years as a resident of Aberdeen, where she was an active member of her community and a tireless advocate for the environment.

Born Adeline Kathleen Daley in Philadelphia, Pa., on Dec. 8, 1924, she was raised in Queens, N.Y., received her bachelor's degree from Queens College, her master's from New York University, and later taught third grade. She moved to Brooklyn, N.Y., in the 1950s, married Henry Arnold in 1960, and moved to Matawan Township/Aberdeen in 1964 where she raised her three sons. In 2012, she and her husband relocated to Sparta, where she enjoyed reading, walking and spending time with her family.

As a young woman, Mrs. Arnold became interested in environmental issues and began to volunteer her time to preserve and protect our natural resources for future generations. She served for 35 years on the Aberdeen Township Environmental and Shade Tree Advisory Board, 22 years as its chair. In 2009, she was honored for 31 years of service on the Monmouth County Solid Waste Advisory Committee when the Board of Freeholders proclaimed "Adeline Arnold Day" in Monmouth County. She also was an active member of the League of Woman Voters of N.J., researching and writing about the importance of water and wetlands. Additionally, Adeline was an involved member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Monmouth County for many years. She taught Sunday school and meticulously gardened around the property. She also counseled youth who were sentenced to community service, often directing them in environmental service projects.

Adeline is survived by her husband of nearly 54 years, Henry C.F. Arnold, of Sparta; her three sons and daughters-in-law, Christian and Gabriela, of Sparta, Robert and Mary Beth, of McLean, Va., and David and Sandi, of Bridgewater; her nine grandchildren, Mario, Carlo, Juliana, Pablo, Matthew, Allison, Daniel, Justin and Lauren; and her sister, Edna Harkins, of New Bern, N.C.

A thoughtful and deeply caring woman, Adeline selflessly gave her time and her efforts to enrich and sustain her family, her community and the Earth. Her quiet voice will always be remembered for the powerful example she set.

A memorial celebration in her honor will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26, at The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Monmouth County, 1475 W. Front St., Lincroft.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE 68410; or the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Monmouth County.