Ingrid E. Barnes, R.I.P.

It is with deep sadness that I inform you of the passing of Ingrid E. Barnes this past Monday, 4 February, 2008 from cancer of her colon.

I will always remember Ingrid as a driving force, a strong and driven woman; one with whom one would not want to find one's self in opposition with. She was an advocate for equality for many, many years, and was politically active throughout most of her life. Her words will hopefully be forever immortalized in the writings on her blog, as well as in Letters to the Editor that you can find by performing a Google web search on her name.

Ingrid served as a Co-President of The LOFT: The Gay & Lesbian Community Services Center in White Plains, NY, and also later served as a director on their board. Most recently, she was President of the Hudson Valley chapter of Log Cabin Republicans.

Professionally, Ingrid was most recently employed as Associate Director of Adult Services at PACE University.

There was a time when I counted Ingrid among the closest of my friends. I was instrumental in Ingrid's political conversion as a Republican, and will hold fond memories of her and those times we spent together.

A wake and memorial services are planned.

Rest In Peace, Ingrid. We will miss you!