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Local nonprofit seeks town site for memorial garden for suicide loss survivors
Summary
A founder seeking to build low‑maintenance memorial gardens for suicide loss survivors asked the Philipstown Town Board for permission to use town property; she said the nonprofit will fund, build and maintain the garden and only needs site permission and DPW coordination.
A nonprofit representative asked the Philipstown Town Board to identify a town site for a memorial garden for people who have lost loved ones to suicide.
Lucille Tear Roy, a co‑founder of the organization proposing the garden, said the group would fund construction and ongoing upkeep and only requests a town‑owned parcel, a permitting clearance and DPW coordination for initial access. "We provide the fundraising...the town provides just permission to use the site," Roy said, noting the group built a first garden on county land in Carmel and will dedicate a second garden in May.
Roy described typical design elements — a heart‑shaped cobblestone border, gravel base to minimize maintenance, one or two benches, a weeping cherry tree, and a plaque. Some communities include names on plaques; others prefer only an inspirational saying. She said the organization seeks roughly a 20–30‑foot area but is flexible on exact dimensions.
Board members suggested potential locations (Glassberry Court and town park parcels were discussed) and invited the group to scout sites with town staff and return with a preferred location for formal consideration. Roy emphasized the project would not require town funding and that private donations and in‑kind contributions typically cover construction and amenities.
Next steps: the group will meet with staff to identify a preferred site and return to the board with a proposed location and any permit requests.
