Upper Makefield fatal flood victim to have post office named in her honor

A year after Susan Barnhart perished in an Upper Makefield flash flood with six others, the longtime postal employee will have the Washington Crossing Post Office named for her.

Bucks County Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-01, of Middletown, introduced a bill last year, co-sponsored by Democrat Bonnie Watson Coleman, D-12, of New Jersey, to rename the office, where Barnhart had worked for years, before her death in the floodwaters on July 15, 2023. The bill passed the House of Representatives last month.

“Last July, our community experienced a devastating tragedy when a violent flash flood claimed the lives of seven innocent people,” Fitzpatrick said in a statement. “Among those we lost that fateful day was the extraordinary Susan Barnhart. Though she lived across the river, Susan spent many years serving our community and was cherished by all. As a model citizen, dedicated public servant, and a beacon of warmth and kindness, Susan was a positive and joyful presence that customers and colleagues looked forward to seeing every day. Her loss, along with that of the other victims, has left an unimaginable void in our community, but through this dedication, her spirit and legacy will continue to inspire us all.”

Fatal floodAmong fatal Upper Makefield flood survivors, Koda the dog was a loyal, loved companion

Barnhart was trapped on Route 532/Washington Crossing Road with other motorists when a heavy rain burst dropped some nine inches of water on the area within an hour. It sent surrounding creeks and streams over their banks, and water crashing onto the roadway.

Some of the travelers attempted to flee their cars, but were swept away. Two children, Matila Sheils, 2, and her brother, Conrad, nine months, were killed along with their mother. Conrad’s body was never found.

Barnhart loved her job, serving both at the Washington Crossing and Newtown Post offices. She also loved dogs, and was with her dog, Koda, when the flooding came. Koda was found wandering a neighborhood two days later, dragging his leash, headed toward the post office.

“Susie was a very funny, caring individual who loved dogs, enjoyed horseback riding and outdoor events with friends and family. She happily led hikes Sunday mornings for dogs and their owners, friends and family as a member of N.J. Trailhounds in Hunterdon/ Mercer parks and dog parks for more than 12 years,” according to a published tribute.

It's unclear when the official public unveiling of the renamed post office will occur. The U.S. Postal Service usually holds a brief public service for such events, according to its website.

JD Mullane can be reached at 215-949-5745 or at jmullane@couriertimes.com.