City of Montclair Township

Theodora “Teddie” McKee

What is your birthdate and where were you born? I was born on August 27. I was born in New York City but immediately went to Brooklyn. where I grew up, going to neighborhood schools right through high school.

When did you move to Montclair? I moved to Montclair in 1967 because my husband was working in Newark and commuting from Brooklyn Heights, where we were living.

Are you currently employed? If so, doing what? If you had a career, what was it? I have been a Clinical Social Worker for many years, and at my age am still working a few days a week, in private practice.

Have you done any volunteer work? If so, what type and with what organization? I lead the Book Discussion Group for the Adult School Department of the Montclair Public Library, a group I have led for more years than I can count. I love this group of intelligent, insightful readers! I used to volunteer for the Adult School when it worked out of Montclair High School, where I answered the phone, registered people, did data entry.

What is your mantra or words you live by? The mantra I live by is from Tennyson, "Tho' much is taken, much abides." I try to focus on what I can still do.

How are you currently engaged in the community? Three Montclair institutions that add so much to my life - the Y, where I go 5 mornings a week for water exercise, the library and the Adult School. They nourish me.

What are your plans for future? How does Montclair fit into these plans? For the future, I hope to go on doing what I do now. I live in a wonderful building in town, a home to people of all ages and races. I have many dear friends here and hope to stay. Mychildren (two sons) accept that this is home, and they visit often. I have four fantastic grandchildren, ranging in age from 9 to 24.

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