The Maryellen McGee “Pillar of the Community Award”
This annual award is given in loving memory of Maryellen McGee, a long-time resident of Topsfield and a remarkable human being. She was selfless, caring, generous, genuine, intelligent, helpful and thoughtful. She demonstrated these qualities through her service to many community activities, such as the Topsfield Recreation Committee, HAWC, the American Red Cross, Strongest Link AIDS Services, TESPTO, and Campfire Girls.
Each year, this award is presented to a member of the community at the Green event. Candidates for this award are those who demonstrate superior service to Topsfield through contributions of their time, talents, and efforts to community organizations.
In 2021, the decision to honor Jerry Buckley, in memoriam, at the Town’s Holiday on the Green festival was unanimous. Jerry passed away in August 2021, but left a legacy that continues to live on. He was a member of the Board of Select, the Chair of the Topsfield Housing Authority, as well as Chair of the 350th town Anniversary Celebration.
When the Town first brought cable television to the Topsfield Community, Jerry hosted a weekly tv show, hoping to keep residents abreast of local issues and encourage dialogue. Jerry worked with the Town government to support the renovation of the Town Library, the building of Masconomet Health Center and promoting Resident Night at the Topsfield Fair.
Although Jerry was often seen in his later years as an older gentleman bicycling around town, he remained a concerned citizen, an impeccable dresser, a champion of seniors and those less fortunate. Like Maryellen McGee, Jerry never did things for public recognition or accolades. Jerry volunteered and performed community service to make life “better” for residents, and he will always be remembered for his heartfelt passion and love of Topsfield.