CAMBRIDGE – Marian Rosalie Kennard Jackson Green's story began Jan. 20, 1934, in Dorchester County's Beckwith community. On Jan. 20, 2024, a vibrant Green joyously greeted the many well wishers who had braved frigid temperatures to honor her journey with a festive American Legion gala.

Green, mother of six children, graduated from F.D. St. Clair High School in 1952 and worked for the Housing Authority of Cambridge for 19 years. She was also among the first residents of the Housing Authority of Cambridge when it was built in 1966.

Throughout her life, she has been a devoted member of Waugh Chapel UMC, a community activist and a lauded poet, publishing her first volume in 1989. Selections from her works, including a tribute to Harriet Tubman, were framed and on display at the Legion.

In addition to former classmates, Housing Authority members, friends and local dignitaries, Green was surrounded by family members who'd traveled from Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and throughout Maryland.

Representing Cambridge, Ward 4 Commissioner Sputty Cephas brought a city proclamation declaring Jan. 20 Marion Green Day forever.