Henry Lee, a founder of Friends of the Public Garden who’s remembered as “a tireless advocate for our parks,” has died. He was 99.
Lee, who was president emeritus of Friends of the Public Garden after he was the group’s leader for 41 years, passed away on Monday.
“As we reflect on his remarkable life, we remember Henry as a tireless advocate for our parks, from leading the fight against the massive Park Plaza development proposed in the seventies to working to restore the Common, Garden, and Mall when they were almost beyond saving,” the Friends said in a statement.
“A civic leader committed to the greater good, he was also a champion of public spaces throughout Boston,” the organization added. “Henry’s leadership, diplomacy, kindness, and dedication have left an indelible mark on our City, our organization, and all of our hearts. The foundation he laid for the Friends guides us daily in our mission to ensure that our parks are healthy and accessible to all.”
A staunch advocate for the restoration of sculpture throughout the city, he also helped to revive the city’s Art Commission in the 1980s.
“He loved the Friends and was so proud of how the Public Gardens looks today,” Lee’s son, Henry, said in a statement. “I believe the Garden is his greatest legacy.”
The Friends of the Public Garden established “The Henry Lee Fund for Boston Parks” in celebration of his 99th birthday.
The fund will provide small grants to enhance public greenspaces throughout the city. These grants will support the care of trees and turf, sculpture maintenance, and special projects in neighborhood parks where the needs are clear but resources are limited.
“This new fund embodies Henry’s commitment to equity in the quality of our public greenspaces,” the Friends said when the group announced the fund. “Grants will be supported by an endowment created by the Friends of the Public Garden, established with a $250,000 commitment from our Board.”
Administered by the Friends, grant decisions will be made by a committee that includes Friends staff and board, representatives of the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, community volunteers, and the Friends’ arboriculture and sculpture consultants.
“Henry Lee’s legacy is forever woven into the history and future of Friends of the Public Garden,” the Friends said. “We will honor Henry’s memory by continuing the vital work he started, and we will ensure that his vision for our public spaces remains an enduring testament to his remarkable leadership.
“May you rest peacefully, Henry Lee,” the group added. “Your impact on our organization and the three parks will always inspire us as we strive to uphold your vision for future generations to come.”
Originally Published: