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The Quinte West community is mourning the loss of Coun. Sally Freeman – one of the city’s longest-serving councillors, who was first elected back in the 90s.
The news broke on Thursday, Oct. 23 that the veteran councillor had died the day prior.
“It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Coun. Sally Freeman,” said the city on Thursday, while noting that flags at Quinte West City Hall had also been lowered in her memory.
A book of condolences is also being set up in the lobby at the city hall as of today and online for the community.
“Coun. Freeman was a dedicated advocate for our community, whose kindness and commitment touched the lives of many,” said Mayor Jim Harrison. “She leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication as seen in the many important initiatives and milestones she has contributed to through the years.
“She will be greatly missed.”
Fellow Ward 1 Trenton Coun. Duncan Armstrong also offered condolences online Thursday morning, saying this is “a very sad day for the City of Quinte West as we learn about the passing of long-time Coun. Sally Freeman.”
Tributes have also been pouring in online from residents and others in the wake of the news of her passing.
Many are remembering Freeman as a “hard-working councillor” who was especially devoted to fighting for local healthcare, including at Trenton Memorial Hospital. However, she was involved in a number of other causes, too, over the decades.
“The QWPFFA sends our condolences to the family and friends of long-time Coun. Sally Freeman, who passed away yesterday,” wrote Quinte West Professional Firefighters Association Local 1328 President Jay Coxwell on social media Thursday. “Coun. Freeman was involved with the emergency services committee for many years and was a proud supporter of the fire service.
“She will be missed,” said Coxwell.
Freeman’s career in public service started back in 1995 when she was elected as an alderman to the then City of Trenton, said the city, in its Thursday release.
Since then, she’s been at the forefront of a number of significant projects in the community – from her involvement in the board that overseen amalgamation of Quinte West in 1998 to construction of the Quinte West Fire/Rescue Headquarters and Station No. 1 in 2018.
Over the years, she’s also served on multiple committees and boards, helping with everything from police services to physician recruitment efforts.
“Among her political accomplishments, Coun. Freeman took pride in her contributions to the Quinte Museum of Natural History, her service on the board of directors for Trenval, and her collaboration with the Ontario Health Coalition to address barriers to quality home care for families in Quinte West,” said the city.
Outside her duties, she appreciated the natural beauty of Quinte West and logged many miles exploring all its amenities and spaces, added the city.
At press deadline, funeral details were not immediately available. The city has said it will share funeral and visitation information via its website when those details are available.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
