Beloved West Caldwell Crossing Guard Touched Hearts Across Town

WEST CALDWELL, NJ — A late, beloved school crossing guard was recently honored during a ceremony at Washington Elementary School in West Caldwell.

More than 75 students, faculty, staff, and police officers came out to honor Marie T. Daly's memory and her service to the schools, where she worked as a crossing guard for many years. The Washington Elementary School’s Home to School Association (HSA) organized a tree planting and memorial service in her honor.

“This tree will serve as a loving memory of all the tireless work that [Daly] did day in and day out to protect our children,” said Kay Middleton, a parent and HSA board member who helped organize the event.

K. Macken Landscaping donated and planted a weeping cherry tree, which Daly’s sister said was her favorite tree, and a plaque commemorating her life was installed.

Washington Elementary School Principal, Tom Adamo shared that, “[Daly] really did start the day with making everybody feel safe, and the kids knew her so well for so many years.”

“She made me feel better when I had a bad day,” said one student.

Another added, “She really was so special.”

According to her obituary, Daly passed away on Jan. 5 at her home in Cedar Grove. She was born in Ireland and came to the United States in 1964, eventually making her home in New Jersey.

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