Scotch Plains Tree Memorial Honors Residents Who Died from COVID

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — Scotch Plains Township will be planting a tree memorial grove at the historical Frazee House to serve as a solemn place to memorialize township residents who died from complications of COVID-19.

Kwanzam Cherry trees will be planted at the grove and were selected because of their deep pink spring blooms that last for weeks.

"We could think of no better place than Frazee House Park to create this lasting tribute," said Mayor Josh Losardo. "It is a passive park at the corner of Raritan and Terrill roads, home to the Scotch Plains Community Garden, a walking path and chessboard top picnic tables. We hope the tree memorial will give residents yet another reason to explore the park."

Shadonte Solomon suggested the memorial grove to the Recreation Commission and is looking forward to memorizing her grandmother, Evelyn Solomon, who raised her family of three generations in Scotch Plains for more than 50 years.

"It saddens me that a woman who was looked at by others as a motherly figure was unable to have a funeral filled with loved ones," Solomon said. "As the year anniversary of her passing approaches, we still are unable to come together to give her a proper memorial. This COVID-19 memorial will be near and dear to my heart because my family will be able to get some peace and closure as well as extend our condolences to other families."

A dedication is being planned later this year.

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