Debbie's Garden celebrates life

SANDPOINT — The simple stone bench bears the inscription "Debbie's Garden." From early spring through the first hard frost, it is surrounded by a colorful succession of blooming plants that celebrate the life of Debbie Fielding — a longtime volunteer and supporter of the Gardenia Center.

When she became ill with cancer and eventually moved back to her parents' home near the end of her life, Debbie stayed in close touch with her friends at the center.

And when she died, those same friends sat down to discuss ways to remember the woman they describe as "a quiet, powerful influence" in their lives.

"At first, we decided that we wanted to plant a tree for Debbie," said Shirley Hardy, who handles the center's active schedule.

"But within an hour, we were drawing out plans for a Zen garden."

Soon after, Fielding's father — who was unaware of the plans for a memory garden — called to say he had requested that any donations given in his daughter's name be earmarked for the Gardenia Center.

More than $2,000 was raised, which quickly went to plant wisteria, lilacs, irises, herbs and several different trees, using the bench as a centerpiece.

The garden, designed by Nan Cooper, has flourished on the northeast side of the building.

The bulbs and perennials did so well in the spot that sections of them were moved to create a second garden at the front of the center about a year ago.

Debbie's Garden, which faces the Sandpoint post office, attracts casual strollers and passers-by who stop to sip their coffee, read a letter or take a breather in peace.

"That's what we had in mind for that space," Hardy said. "It's just a nice place for people to sit and reflect."