Barbara Thurston Guernsey, 85, known as BD, of New York city and a longtime resident of Edgartown, died peacefully in her sleep on Oct. 11. BD was a 53-year survivor of breast cancer.

Wife of Peter E. Guernsey for 62 years, she was born in New York city on August 17, 1922 and was a direct descendant of both U.S. Presidents — William Henry Harrison and Benjamin Harrison. She attended the Westover School, was a nurse’s aid for the Red Cross in World War II, a board member of The Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and a long-time volunteer for the Hospital’s Fresh Flower Program.

In addition, she was a docent of the Metropolitan Museum’s Costume Institute for over 25 years. An avid reader, she was a constant patron and lover of the theater and opera in both New York and London.

She is survived by her three children: Dinah G. Reath of Lewes, Del., Peter E. Guernsey Jr., of Bedford, New York and Edgartown, and Didi G. Woodhull of Bedford, New York; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. A private service for immediate family will be held at the Guernsey ancestral home, Kent Harbor, in Katama.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Society of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, ATT: FFP, 1275 York avenue, New York, NY, 10065.