From The President
DAUN THOMAS FRANKLAND
Dear Friends,
Since I was raised in the Superintendent’s House on our grounds, Columbia Gardens Cemetery was a constant part of my life growing up. Like many young people, when I left for college I never really considered entering the family business. After studying Art History and Art Studio, I began my career as an interior designer, later founding Thomas Matthews Antiques and finally Paris At My Feet consulting in France. I also got married and moved to California, Germany, Kansas, Germany again, The Netherlands, back to Washington, DC, and then to Paris, while my family looked after Columbia Gardens.
In 2015, I returned to Arlington to take over the position of president and superintendent of Columbia Gardens Cemetery. I believe I bring a new perspective to our family’s business. My previous work gave me broad business experience that required providing exceptional customer service, being flexible and adaptable, and being a good listener and problem solver. These are skills which I have found particularly valuable in my role at Columbia Gardens.
We observed our 100th Anniversary in 2017 with a wonderful celebration for families, friends and neighbors. We will continue to reach out to our community in friendship.
Recently I was honored to join the Board of the Virginia Cemetery Association. Columbia Gardens is, once again, a constant part of my life – something that is meaningful and fulfilling to me. I extend my personal invitation to visit our grounds, enjoy our gardens and towering trees, and experience the sense of reflection and peace that Columbia Gardens offers.
Daun Thomas Frankland
