Mildred P. Grinnell

COHASSET, Mass. — Mildred P. (Thomson) Grinnell, 86, a resident of Cohasset since 1957, died Friday, Aug. 1, 2008.

Known fondly to all as "Tish," she was born, raised and educated in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, graduating from Mills College in Oakland, Calif., with a degree in fine arts. Tish was a renowned floral designer who exhibited, taught and judged flower arranging at garden clubs and flower shows across the Northeast.

Tish was the loving wife of 65 years of James B. Grinnell of Cohasset and the beloved mother of Martha B. Grinnell of Hope, B.C., James B. Grinnell Jr. of Mattapoisett, Ann H. Grinnell of Kittery Point, Maine, Richard T. Grinnell of Scituate, Charles M. Grinnell of Groton, and Matthew P. Grinnell of Merrimac. She is also survived by her sister, Madge McCririck of Vancouver, B.C.; her grandchildren, Lucy, Geoffrey, Jody, Noel, Charlie, Lydia, Dean, Samuel, Emma, Margaret, Hannah and Sarah; and her great-grandchild, Miles.

WE REMEMBER: She held the distinction of winning top honors at the New England Flower Show for many years, exhibiting last in 2005 at age 83. She was also awarded the title of judge emeritus by the Garden Club of America in 2002, and was very active in the community.

SERVICES: A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Second Congregational Church, 43 Highland Ave., Cohasset. Visiting hours omitted. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Tish's memory may be made to the Appalachian Fund, c/o Second Congregation Church, 43 Highland Ave., Cohasset, MA 02025. For an online guestbook, please visit www.mcnamara-sparrell.com.