South River dedicates community room to legacy of much-respected town clerk

by Olivia Bradbury, The Shoreline/Local Journalism Initiative

The Town of South River has dedicated a community room in the town hall to long-time Town Clerk Evelyn Crane, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 72.

The Town held a ceremony to dedicate the room to Crane on July 30. There was a huge turnout, with every chair in the room filled and even more people standing at the side of the room.

“Evelyn was born and raised in South River, and was acquainted with practically everyone in this town,” said Mayor Bev Wells. “She was the town clerk for 14 years — from July 1979 until May 1993. She loved this community and was committed to her role here at the Town.”

Crane was also an active community member through her involvement in the church.

“It was not long after moving to South River that Evelyn approached me to join her Sunday school group,” said Wells. “I decided to give it a try and, from then on, I became involved in every group at the church because of Evelyn. If Evelyn had not approached me, I don’t know I would even be here as mayor today. And I want to thank her for it.”

Wells spoke about the fun and laughs she and Crane shared and recalled Crane’s organizational skills and reliability when it came to planning events. She described Crane as a family-oriented woman who loved spending time with her husband and sons and found great joy in her grandchildren.

“I could list many talents and accomplishments in her capacity as town clerk, but that would take a while,” said Wells. “And Evelyn didn’t need recognition. She knew we knew she was good. The Town of South River was extremely fortunate to have such an amazing person represent us. We learned from her, appreciated her, and now we dedicate this room to her. Thank you all for the opportunity to make it clear Evelyn was ours. And, from now on, this room will remind us.”

Deputy Mayor Melissa Hierlihy read the official proclamation dedicating the room to Crane, describing the ways in which she bettered the town.

“Whereas, during her many years in office, Evelyn Crane provided exemplary administrative leadership, ensured continuity in municipal operations, and upheld the highest standards of public service, earning the respect of council, staff, and community members alike; And whereas her dedication strengthened the town’s administrative foundation, enhanced community engagement, and contributed significantly to the growth, stability, and well-being of South River, the Town wishes to honour her legacy in a manner that is both public and enduring, reflecting the respect and appreciation felt throughout the community,” Hierlihy said.

Two of Crane’s grandchildren, Nathan and Hillary, unveiled the dedication plaque.

After the unveiling, Crane’s sons spoke to the crowd.

“Very kind to be able to be nominated for something like this for Mom, but even to be awarded it,” said Paul Crane. “There’s so many deserving people that you could have looked back at in the past or currently. And to have Mom selected to be honoured, very, very much appreciated.”

“Mom passed during COVID,” added David Crane. “There were 20 people at her funeral. No wake.”

He said Crane’s closest friends, whom he noted were in attendance at the dedication, were not able to attend her funeral because of the restrictions at the time. “To have this type of a tribute is a really neat thing and we’re certainly appreciative of that,” he said, adding his mother was proud to be from South River, and instilled that pride in himself and his brother Paul.

“She loved to have a laugh,” said David. “And I look around here and I remember seeing her laughing with all the people that are in this room, and it’s really cool.”