Cllr Eva Greenspan, who represented Finchley Church End ward, died on Saturday (January 11).
The Conservative was first elected in 1990 and served as Mayor in 2006-7, during which she raised £250,000 for Barnet charities.
During her decades of service she served in roles including chair of planning. She was a governor for five schools over 30 years and a trustee of several housing associations.
She was chairman of the Barnet Ramat Gan, strengthening ties and fostering collaboration between Barnet and its twin city, Israel’s Ramat Gan.
Recently, she started a charity called Kosher School Meals.
In July 2024, she was recognised with a long service award.
Leading the tributes, Barnet mayor Cllr Tony Vourou said Cllr Greenspan would be “remembered for her remarkable legacy, serving our community with unwavering dedication”.
He added: “Cllr Eva Greenspan was a beacon of leadership, integrity, and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on our borough.
“Beyond her professional achievements, Eva was known for her kindness and approachability. She took the time to listen to the concerns of local residents, always striving to find solutions that benefited all.
“I, along with the Mayoress and the Mayoral Office, express our sadness of the news of Eva’s passing and give our condolences to her family and wish them long life.”
Conservative Group leader Cllr Peter Zinkin said she was a “stalwart” of the council who served her constituents and the wider Barnet community “unstintingly”.
He added: “She was a fiercely dedicated councillor in Finchley, who would not allow ill health to prevent her from serving her residents.
“There’s only one Eva Greenspan and her passing will leave a hole in the hearts of many of us. Eva was nothing short of exceptional! May her name be a blessing.”
Barnet Council leader Cllr Barry Rawlings said she was “formidable” and served her constituents with “tenacity and vigour”.
“Her long service award was well deserved as recognition of her contribution to the civic life of Barnet over many decades. She will be sorely missed.”
Eva is survived by her children Natalie, Stephanie and Jason, numerous grandchildren and a great-grandchild.
Tributes will be paid formally at the council’s next full meeting on January 28, which will be followed by a one-minute silence.
