Frances Allou Gershwin

Fran leaves a great legacy locally in Boston and nationwide through the national urban parks advocacy movement.

Fran was a board member of City Parks Alliance and always ready to help in any way that she could. She was the co-chair of the Alliance´s Advocacy Committee, which oversees its federal advocacy work on behalf of urban parks. In this role she was instrumental in helping to plant the seeds for legislation-the Outdoors for All Act--that was passed into law late last year (with bi-partisan support), codifying the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grant program that provides funding for parks in urban communities across the U.S., particularly those that have been under-resourced.

She was also chair of the Alliance´s Finance Committee, where she reviewed documents and policies that fell under that group's purview. Over the years she advised on many legal matters, no matter how big or small. She made many contributions toward the Alliance´s strategic direction and even hosted a board meeting in Boston, giving us an opportunity to see the impact of her leadership on the Muddy River restoration.

City Parks Alliance is grateful for all the ways she improved the landscape of our cities and the health and lives of the people who reside in them. We continue to miss her!

Catherine Nagel, Executive Director, City Parks Alliance

In Loving Memory of Fran Gershwin

Fran Gershwin was a beacon of warmth and hospitality, cherished by all who knew her. As the gracious hostess of MIT's summer house, she welcomed graduate students and their families with open arms.

Rest in peace, dear Fran. You will be missed, but your memory will always bring smiles to our faces.

Fran was "my partner" at the book club meetings! Fun and so smart, I miss her so much! An amazing woman!

Francis was a special person who came into my life. With her this brought her family Stan and Julian with Erin. My heart is breaking for this family and my on going heartbreaking when I received the news of her passing after she was discharged from my care and facility I work for. She was strong willed, laughed in her best way she could with Stan's comical remarks and the yellow sweater. This family was the closest family I have encountered in my care. They are genuine to the core. Stan, Julian and Erin, my deepest sympathy for you all. I will never forget either of you. Fran was one special woman who was in her own way a tough lady. Please, at the celebration, know I'm tgere in heart.