Her Death a Loss to Cabrini, Wayne Communities

When the Woodcrest Estate Mansion at Cabrini College in Radnor was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 2009, Wayne resident Martha Dale was one of the people who deserved, and received, recognition.

Dale, who had worked as Director of Historical Projects for the college also worked for many years as its alumni director.

But when Dale died of cancer on Sept. 24, tributes and profound words were shared about the 35-year Wayne resident.

"She had an incredible way about her — she had a very big genuine interest about so much, and made you feel so connected to her by how she listened and responded to what you were thinking or saying. She had a very young spirit; she didn’t seem to let her age dictate her thoughts," said Beverlee Barnes, who worked with Dale to get Woodcrest listed.

According to her obituary, Cabrini president Marie A. George described Mrs. Dale as "a long and shining star".

In Dale's Legacy.com guestbook, Meg Henner Wileczek writes, "Dear Martha, I don't know if you'd know my name if you heard it, but never-the-less, you were the deciding factor when I choose to attend Cabrini. My mother, an alumnus, introduced us on my first campus visit...There was something about your presence - your character and grace that was alluring and it creating a feeling of home for me. I choose Cabrini, and you helped me get a scholarship."

Remembrances may be made in Dale's name to the Martha Dale Endowed Scholarship at Cabrini College, 610 King of Prussia Rd., Radnor PA 19087.

Barnes said she is still dealing with Dale's death. "Her warmth, humor and generous curiosity spilled out in many unexpected times. She could make you laugh as well as think seriously about big and little things," she said. " I keep hearing her voice and seeing her smile. She will stay with me."