Obituaries

Ernesta D. Ballard, ‘godmother of Philadelphia feminism’

Ernesta Drinker Ballard, 85, died on August 11 of complications following a recent stroke.

A resident of Cathedral Village since 1998, she was a mainstay of Chestnut Hill, the Philadelphia Flower Show and Fairmount Park, where she served as a commissioner for 21 years.

A 1954 graduate of the Pennsylvania School of Horticulture for Women (now the Ambler campus of Temple University), she spent 18 years (1963-81) as chief executive officer of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, during which time the society instituted its community gardening program, Philadelphia Green, and the now-internationally-famous Philadelphia Flower Show was revived.

Mrs. Ballard, who wrote a book on gardening and sat on many horticulture-related boards, was also known for developing a large and varied collection of bonsai and other plants in her Crefeld Street home with her late husband, Frederic, a well-known Philadelphia attorney.

She was an activist and advocate for many women’s causes and empowerment: she never let an opportunity pass to express her views, encouraging people to use their voice at the ballot box. In a 2003 interview on the Web site womenmatter.com, she said, “It is important for women to discuss anything they care about everywhere they can. Choose your issue. Maybe it is the environment, education or health. Then register in the primary so that you can vote for the person who thinks the way you do and can actually get elected. Give money to that candidate and help the campaign. Women must be heard in the primaries. A message for ‘independents;’ you are throwing away your franchise.” She was an active and passionate member of the National Organization for Women, Women's Way and the National Abortion and Reproductive Rights Action League, of which she was a founding member.

Her advocacy skills led to the successful role she played in helping to save the Swann Fountain at Logan Circle and her involvement in the restoration of the buildings and grounds of the Fairmount Waterworks.

She was also a founder and charter member of the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance.

According to a statement issued by Mayor John Street, "Thanks to [Mrs. Ballard’s] stalwart efforts and graceful elegance, Philadelphia is a better place now and for generations to come."

Mrs. Ballard is survived by a son, Frederic L. "Rick" Ballard Jr.; daughters Alice W. Ballard, Sophie B. Bilezikian and Ernesta B. Barnes; a sister; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Mr. Ballard died in 2001.

Services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 2 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 22 E. Chestnut Hill Ave. Burial will be private.

Albert C. Fisher

Albert C. Fisher, of Wyndmoor, died on August 10.

He was the husband of Nancy Fisher (nee Volpe) and father of Ronald J. (Carolyn) and the late Raymond Jr. He is also survived by his grandchildren Donna, Raymond, Linda, Ronald Jr. and Christopher, plus 11 great-grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated on August 13 at Seven Dolors Church, with interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Genevieve's Church, 1225 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, PA 19031.

Joseph P. Curran

Joseph P. Curran, of Morristown, N.J., formerly of Chestnut Hill, died on August 8.

He was the husband of the late Louise Curran (nee Nicoletti); father of Patricia L. McBride (Gerald) of Morristown, N.J.; and Joseph P. Curran Jr. (Linda) of Naples, Fla. He is also survived by seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated at Our Mother of Consolation Church, on August 12. Interment was at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Helen Gallagher

Helen Nell Gallagher (nee Kalbach), of Mt. Airy, died on August 11.

She was the wife of the late John J. Gallagher Sr., and was predeceased by her son, Brian P. Gallagher.

Mrs. Gallagher is survived by sons Donald F. and John J. Gallagher and daughter Maureen A. Gallagher, seven grandchildren, and sisters Marianne Reilly, Jane Grant and Kathleen McCarthy.

A Funeral Mass was held at Holy Cross Church, Mt. Airy on August 16. Interment was at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph’s Villa, 110 W. Wissahickon Ave., Flourtown, PA 19031.