Remembering Patti-Jo

A year after losing her battle with cancer, Patti-Jo Shapiro is still heralded as being the unofficial “Ambassador of Lilburn.”

Her pride, love and dedication to the city will be remembered for years to come, and so it is on this day, August 3 -- the day of her passing -- that Patch remembers her, as well.

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Although born in Connecticut, Shapiro spent more than 30 years of her life in Gwinnett County.

In Lilburn, she took on tasks of photographing and helping with a number of city events and groups, such as the Lilburn Farmer's Market, the Lilburn Business Association, the Lilburn Woman's Club, and more.

After she was diagnosed with cancer, the city dedicated its annual parade to her. In December of 2010, a proclamation also was read to publically thank her.

Then-mayor Diana Preston, was quoted in Patch as saying: "She means a lot to Lilburn. Her message is always so positive. She's like our No. 1 cheerleader.

When it came time to say goodbye to Shapiro and celebrate her life, hundreds of members of the Lilburn community arrived to honor her life and accomplishments.

A year later, how she lived and what she stood for continue to resonate.

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