Deerfield Public Library Mourns Loss of Board Member Emily Wallace

DEERFIELD, IL — The Deerfield Public Library Board and staff are mourning the loss of board member Emily Wallace, and extendeding condolences to her family and friends, joining the community in remembering her legacy.

Wallace, 72, had served as a library board member since 2021. During her tenure, she was a supporter of the library's programs, materials, services, and staff.

Wallace was also a beloved first-grade teacher at South Park Elementary School for 21 years. The library said her contributions were informed by her personal experiences as a Deerfield school teacher.

Wallace's background working with young readers and her dedication to youth programming are among the many qualities that will be deeply missed. She regularly offered ideas that helped inform library decisions.

Wallace served on both the Building Committee and the Memorials Committee. On the Memorials Committee, the library credited her revitalizing the Giving Tree program. This initiative helps ensure that community members who generously volunteer their time to the library are recognized for their contributions.

Her dedication to the Deerfield community was evident in her work, according to the library. The Deerfield Public Library said that everyone at the institution will miss Wallace's presence and contributions, not only to the library but also to the broader Deerfield community.

According to her obituary, Wallace's service is planned for 1 p.m. Tuesday, at The Chapel, 195 N. Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove. The service will be livestreamed on Emily’s page at www.goldmanfuneralgroup.com. Interment following at Shalom Memorial Park, Arlington Heights. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice.