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Resolution in Memory of Ann Whitford Lewis Austin. CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY
RES 2026-89
FIRST IN COUNCIL
June 1, 2026
City of Cambridge
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS:
Ann Whitford Lewis Austin, a longtime resident of Cambridge, passed away on May
13, 2026, at the age of 93 after living with Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder;
and
WHEREAS:
Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Ann devoted her life to education, literature,
community engagement, and public service, first as a high school English teacher and
later through her work in publishing and research; and
WHEREAS:
In 1967, Ann and her family made Cambridge their home, where they became active
members of the community and established deep roots that would span nearly six
decades; and
WHEREAS:
Ann and her family joined Christ Church Cambridge, which became both a spiritual
home and a center of lifelong friendships and community connection; and
WHEREAS:
Ann was deeply engaged in Cambridge civic and community life, participating in
local schools, cultivating a love of nature and learning, and generously sharing her
time and talents with others; and
WHEREAS:
Ann worked for Earthwatch Institute beginning in 1978, contributing through writing,
research support, and stewardship of the organization’s library, helping connect
volunteers and scientists in the pursuit of environmental research and understanding;
and
WHEREAS:
Following her retirement, Ann remained an active and valued member of the
Cambridge community as a dedicated election worker and volunteer English as a
Second Language instructor with the Community Learning Center, helping welcome
and support immigrant and adult learners in the city; and
WHEREAS:
Ann also found joy in music, gardening, travel, reading, and friendship, and was
cherished by family, neighbors, fellow parishioners, students, and all who knew her
warmth, curiosity, and generosity of spirit; now therefore be it
RESOLVED:
That the Cambridge City Council honor the life and memory of Ann Whitford Lewis
Austin and extend its deepest condolences to her children, grandchildren, extended
family, and many friends and loved ones; and be it further
RESOLVED:
That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy
of this resolution to the family of Ann Whitford Lewis Austin in recognition of her
life of service, compassion, and dedication to the Cambridge community.
A true copy;
ATTEST:-
Paula M. Crane,
Interim City Clerk
Vote Certification
Resolution in Memory of Ann Whitford Lewis Austin. CHARTER RIGHT
EXERCISED BY COUNCILLOR SIMMONS IN COUNCIL JUNE 1, 2026
Charter Right exercised by Councillor Simmons: Monday, June 1, 2026
RESULT:
0 TO 0
YEAS:
NAYS:
PRESENT:
ABSENT:
City of Cambridge
Resolution in Memory of Ann Whitford Lewis Austin.