Jean Reese Worthley

Jean Worthley in 2008

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the last of the founding members of Soldiers Delight Conservation, Inc., Jean Reese Worthley, early this morning at the age of 92. Jean will be dearly remembered for her vast contributions to Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area and our Friends group, SDCI, which she founded to support the habitat. In addition, Jean was devoted to the Cylburn arboretum and Maryland Public Television, where she hosted a long running children's nature show, Hodge Podge Lodge. Jean was revered by students of the Worthley Botany class she led for many years, and by other groups who treasure plants all over the world.

Jean had recently hosted a potluck dinner with her botany class in celebration of her 92nd birthday at Two Below, her rustic property in Carroll County, Maryland. Until the very end, Jean retained an encyclopedic knowledge of plants, birds, and the natural world, and was able to cite their Latin names as easily as their common names.

Rest in peace, dear Miss Jean. We'll miss you.