Prominent Malden women Susan Thomson, Karen Anderson and Bailie Weiss honored at garden dedication

Special to The Advocate

Mayor Gary Christenson recently joined Ward 7 Councillor Chris Simonelli, Ward 5 Councillor Ari Taylor and Councillor-at-Large Michelle Luong as they brought the community together for the dedication of the “Rooted in Service Garden” at Lincoln Commons. Elected officials, Malden Zonta Club members, residents and family members were in attendance to honor three extraordinary Malden women whose lifelong service helped shape our city: Susan Thomson, Karen Anderson and Bailie Weiss.

Karen Anderson served as Malden’s City Clerk for 33 years and as a public servant for nearly five decades. She was well known and respected for her steadiness, wisdom and unmatched depth of knowledge. Whether navigating the City of Malden’s ordinances and charter, historical matters or municipal operations, she was always the go-to person. She built incredible relationships with residents, coworkers and elected officials and was a true public servant and a friend to many.

Susan Thomson’s life was defined by advocacy, leadership and a fierce belief in the power of community. She held many leadership roles, including on the Massachusetts State Democratic Committee, Democratic National Committee, the Zonta Club of Malden and Junior Aid of Malden, to name a few. She lifted people up and served as a mentor to so many young women — encouraging them to serve as well.

Bailie Weiss was an active community member who spent 45 years supporting families and children in the Malden Public Schools. She worked as a crossing guard, was a member of the Malden Democratic City Committee and touched countless lives. Councillor Simonelli spoke about the impact Bailie had on him as a young child when she encouraged him to do his best at school.

“This garden honors the achievements of three distinguished women whose contributions have helped shape our shared future,” said Councillor Simonelli. “I’m proud to have this garden in Ward 7.”

City Council President Amanda Linehan offered remarks on the importance of recognizing women for their accomplishments, and former Mayor Ed Lucey spoke about his friendship with and deep respect for all three women. Jennifer Thomson Sullivan, daughter of Susan Thomson, Jay Weiss, son of Bailie Weiss, and Jim Chiavelli, husband of Karen Anderson, all offered touching remarks.

The beautiful garden is planted with some perennials: rhododendron, roses, mountain sage, Shasta daisy, blanket flower and coneflower. The City of Malden is grateful for the assistance of DPW Director Paul Myers, who oversaw the planting, Cemetery Director Chris Rosa, who designed the garden, and Public Facilities Director Eric Rubin.