February 13, 2009

Dear Families and Friends,

It is with great sadness I am writing to inform you that our friend and colleague Beverly Eckert died tragically last night in a plane crash near Buffalo, New York. 

After the death of her husband Sean Rooney on 9/11, Beverly joined me in co-founding Voices of September 11th to provide the 9/11 families a voice and advocate on their behalf.  Beverly was passionate and deeply committed to improving the safety and security of Americans.  She worked tirelessly to advocate for the creation of the 9/11 Commission and legislation based on its recommendations and more recently supported the implementation of the WMD Commission recommendations.  Beverly was among the 9/11 family members who met with President Obama last Friday to discuss the closing of Guantanamo. 

Beverly's friendship, spirit and commitment were an inspiration to all those who had the privilege to work with her. It was an honor to know her and her friendship will be sorely missed.  At this difficult time, we offer our heartfelt condolences and our prayers to her family and friends and all those in the 9/11 community whose life she touched.  

As details about her memorial service become available, we will keep you informed.  Please feel free to send your condolences to us at email@voicesofsept11.org and we will forward them to Beverly’s family.

Warm Regards,

Mary and the VOICES Staff