Obituaries

Sophia A. Greenfield

Unexpectedly, Sophia A. Greenfield fell seriously ill at the end of December. She passed away on Jan. 22, 2020, in the caring surrounds of Good Shepherd Hospice in Port Jefferson, N.Y. Sophia’s spirit is no doubt watching over us, wishing us well and encouraging us to keep kindness in our hearts.

Sophia came to the North Fork in 1968 from Washington, D.C. She grew up in a dynamic multicultural city with interesting people, places, experiences. She was always artistic, creative and imaginative. Early on she became passionate about gardening (which evolved into her lifelong commitment to protecting the environment). She was a good athlete. She loved swimming in the Chesapeake Bay. Her love for sailing started in Washington. After college at George Washington University, she became a social worker. She was an adventurous, poised young woman, confident enough to tour Europe by herself for several months. She had a younger sister, Dolores Kaminski, who survives her.

A childhood friend recalled this about her: “Sophia (Sophie) was my close friend. We shared a lively curiosity and active engagement in our world. Sophie made everything fun — she was smart and quick, imaginative and inventive. She could make things happen both artistically and practically. Being highly adept at whatever she did, her creative energy made everything and every day an exciting adventure. What fun we had climbing cliffs in Rock Creek Park, exploring deserted mansions, building forts and gardens, playing hopscotch and football with neighborhood friends in the street, cooking and cleaning, drawing. Our special fun was flying down the front stairs of my house on a mattress. Just two little girls enjoying life. We were lucky.”

On the North Fork, Sophia lived in both Southold and Peconic. She came here as a new bride and later divorced. She was a proud, independent, courageous, resourceful, highly creative, caring individual with a good sense of humor. She was also very private. Her friendships and concern for others were far-reaching — from the kids she taught, to fellow artists, to local merchants and farmers, to tradespeople and business professionals, to community organizations and people in need. She was an appreciative person. Her artistry also carried over to her work as a skilled landscaper. She was an “original,” one-of-a-kind person who touched many people’s lives and hearts.

People usually spotted Sophia accompanied by her dog, Ben. They were almost inseparable. They took long walks on the beaches, back roads, and countryside. Sophia always loved animals and sometimes volunteered at the Southold Town Animal Shelter. In recent years, Sophia often made wonderful little collages from recycled publications. Usually a loving or thoughtful message was attached, written in her strong, clear script. Not surprising, as she was an avid reader and sincere person, with something to say.

Sophia’s ashes will be scattered at sea. Peace and Blessings! If you wish to make a donation in Sophia’s memory, please contact the Southold Town Animal Shelter, 631-765-1811.

This is a paid notice.