the CIVIC
GARDENER
In Memory of Gwynne Jamieson
by Jerri Garza
I first met Gwynne Jamieson at a
meeting of the Texas Mountain Trail
Writers (TMTW) in the Fall of 2017.
We would cross paths again in a book
club discussion at Front Street Books.
She revealed to me that she was a
member of several other local book
clubs. I was only knowledgeable of the
one at Front Street Books and amazed
there was more than one and one could belong to
more than one club. Wow, that was reading with
a passion! I am certain that her reading far
surpassed my yearly average number of books.
At a recent TMTW meeting I learned of her
project to provide books in the Union Pacific
Dynamos of personal action exist in all cities,
towns, and governments. These “civic
gardeners” are true unsung leaders. They
possess goals to help someone, something,
someplace, as a gift of self to others. In pursuit
of unselfish concerns and with a generosity of
spirit they spread joy, compassion, and sharing.
With a lightness and braveness of soul they risk
criticism and obstacles to beautify, educate, and
adopt.
These dynamos bring enthusiasm where there
is antipathy using tools of will in dedication, the
gift of optimism, and a zest for life. They act
where there is a need to do rather than discuss
and play with words. Their mantra might
announce, “Be courageous, be passionate, and
never give up or resign,” as their guide to
staying the course. Many of them take on
projects because they truly care, not for
accolades, publicity, awards, or prestige. Efforts
are completed because the soul and spirit say it
is right, helpful, and honest.
The civic gardener creates spaces for healing
the physical, mental, and spiritual problems in
a society. This may involve the caring for plants
in xeriscaping and being water thrifty. Civic
pride mends blight and literacy heals ignorance.
depot for travelers on the Amtrak route. This was
in addition to her ”Save Amtrak” campaign to
ensure that Amtrak would continue to stop in
Alpine. Gwynne was a member of the Alpine
Garden Club as well as earning the title of a
Texas Master Naturalist. Gwynne passed away
April 29 of this year. Alpine Memorial Funeral
Home posted an obituary that mentions her many
accomplishments:
https://www.alpinememorialfuneralhome.com
/obituary/Gwynne-Jamieson
She had an impressive career and was
passionate about many endeavors and charities.
Her energy and enthusiasm will be missed.
Engaging in the improvement of passenger
experiences on a rail travel line corrects errors
and salvages opportunities in continuing the use
of this service. Positive endeavors remedy
pollution, misuse, waste, or disregard. All
involve a passion and penance in the joy and
trials of the efforts.
Though citizens are imperfect and fractured,
they try. And while they are flawed, they can
work wonders. Accomplishment may be a
personal compensation, so imagine impossible
dreams and take up a cause. Too soon, some
dynamos have been called home by the Master
Gardener. When extinguished, the memory
lingers and an emptiness remains of their
passion. In their finality a success, so, honor
their works.
How many will step up and continue the
challenge to fill their void? At life’s unknown
close, may it be worth it to have cared. How will
we answer at our sunset when summoned
homeward? Will we have crossed our “bar” in
service to others? When our bell tolls will we
have accomplished purpose where others relax in
apathy and deferment? Hopefully, we will have
answered in a melody to life’s medleys.
28 Cenizo Summer 2020