To say that Phyllis Burd has been a staple in the Greater Washington community, someone who has been giving back for many years, is an understatement of large proportions.

So when the question of who would be this year’s Grand Marshal for the Washington Celebrates America parade on July 4th, Phyllis Burd was chosen hands-down!

The Washington Celebrates America festivities also includes an Orange Crate Derby for kids, the Old Fashioned Parade and Fireworks at dusk! This American celebration is a longtime tradition for Washington – and it’s completely paid for with community donations.

The fun kicks off in the morning with the Soap Box Derby on Broad Street. The parade steps off at 3 p.m. Prior to the fireworks at the Middle School, enjoy some music with DJ Doc South. And once dusk sets in get ready for the awesome fireworks.

“There was no argument at our committee meeting,” said WCA Committee Chair Richard Maguire. “Phyllis Burd is clearly an outstanding individual who has been involved in the community for decades, particularly in her support of programs for those with disabilities. We are really thrilled that she’ll be leading the parade this year.”

To celebrate Burd’s selection, the first annual Dinner with the Grand Marshal fundraising event will take place at the Draught House, Route 31, Washington, on Saturday June 30 starting at 7 p.m. Dinner will be outside, under a tent next to the boat bar. There will be a buffet style dinner including salad and dinner rolls, chicken wings, meatballs and penne vodka. There will be a cash bar.

Burd, of course, will be the center of attention at the fundraiser, and at the parade!

Born and raised in New England, Phyllis pursued secretarial work after graduation from high school. While in Connecticut, she met Don Burd, who was from Washington. They were married in 1949. When he retired from the U.S. Coast Guard in 1966, they made their permanent residence in Washington and had seven children, all but one graduating from Warren Hills Regional High School.

One of her sons, Jeffrey, was born with Down Syndrome, leading her to an active role advocating for services and supports for those with disabilities. Early in the 1970’s, Phyllis served as President of the Arc of Warren County, providing volunteer leadership. In 1974 she was a founding director of Abilities of Northwest Jersey, Inc., promoting vocational training and employment services for individuals throughout the community. Phyllis remained active on the Abilities Board of Directors for 41 years. She also assumed the position of office manager for the ARC of Warren. This job developed into an executive secretarial position where she remained until retiring in 1990. Both agencies have dedicated her name to capital projects, commemorating her many years of advocacy and support.

She has been a member of the United Methodist Church of Washington since 1966. She served as a trustee and is an active volunteer as a member of the United Methodist Women of Washington UMC, currently holding office of Secretary. She is also an active volunteer through the church for Samaritan’s Purse, collecting and packing shoeboxes of items for children in need throughout the world.

She has been a volunteer of the Washington Community Food Pantry since it began in 1974 and continues to volunteer her services one day per month. Phyllis is also a 39-year member of the Order of Eastern Star, holding a variety of offices for the local chapter, and was actively involved in volunteer work at their Eastern Star Home in Bridgewater.

She was inducted into the Hackettstown Area Senior Hall of Fame, Class of 2007. In addition to being a dedicated volunteer for her community, Phyllis enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, many who have followed her footsteps into public service careers.

“I am so honored to be selected by the Washington Celebrates America committee as Grand Marshal,” she said.

Washington Celebrates America is made possible through the many devoted volunteers and financial donations made by businesses and community members. For further information about Washington Celebrates America and how you can get involved, or to make a donation, call 908-619-5749.