Sarah "Sally" Copeland Morton, retired nursery school teacher and lifelong Baltimore resident, died of complications from breast cancer on October 13. She was 72.

"Ms. Sally", as she was known to her students, taught the prep class at Elmhurst Nursery School for nearly two decades. She was known for her imaginative art projects and puppet shows, which inspired a generation of young learners. Outside the classroom, Sarah brought her creativity and love of learning to every aspect of her life. She was a strong supporter of the City's art and cultural institutions and a frequent attendee at local theater and music performances. A lover of the natural world, she also enjoyed gardening, hiking, and spending time at the beach.

Sarah will be remembered for her strong and independent spirit, her sparkling wit, and the care and kindness that she showed to friends and family members - particularly those who were ill or otherwise in need. She is survived by her niece, April Morton of Annapolis, whom she raised and loved as a daughter; her sister, Marianne Morton of Madison, Wisconsin; her niece Laura Mitchell-Morton of San Francisco, California; and her nephew, Alex Mitchell-Morton of Seattle, Washington.

Plans for a memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Sarah may be made to Paul's Place , 1118 Ward St, Baltimore, MD 21230; or to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation , 6 Herndon Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403.