Howard L. Field, 86, of Chestnut Hill, a psychiatrist and a clinical professor of medicine at Jefferson Medical College for more than three decades, died suddenly March 5 at Jefferson Medical Center.
During his long career at Jefferson, Dr. Field had directed inpatient psychiatry, residency training and consultation-liaison psychiatry. Although he retired in 1995, he continued to serve as an active member of the volunteer faculty until his death.
Colleagues said he brought compassion, wisdom and clinical expertise not only to those suffering from psychiatric disorders, but also to patients experiencing the emotional side-effects of diseases such as hemophilia, AIDS, cancer, organ failure and multiple sclerosis, as well as those facing organ transplants and neurosurgery.
Born in Buffalo, N.Y., he graduated from Atlantic City (N.J.) High School, the University of North Carolina and Jefferson Medical School.
An avid gardener, he also enjoyed reading, dancing and cooking.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, the former Maxine Major; a son, Daniel; daughters Deborah and Emily Field Warm; a sister, Barbara Field, and six grandchildren.
Memorial donations can be sent to Doctors Without Borders, 333 7th Ave., New York, NY 10001; the Morris Arboretum, 100 E Northwestern Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118 , or Weavers Way Community Programs, 559 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119.
A memorial service is planned for the spring. Remembrances can be shared at howardfield.wordpress.com – WF
