It is with profound sadness that we at Diverse Holliston share the news of the unexpected passing of our dear friend and fellow advocate, Deola (“Dee”) Phair, on October 13, 2024. Dee was a force for change, constantly pushing Holliston to do better—challenging all of us to reflect on how we could make our town more equitable and just. Her presence was a reminder that there was always more work to be done, and she was tireless in her commitment to making Holliston a community where everyone could thrive.
Dee served as a board member of Diverse Holliston for several years, serving as our treasurer, webmaster, and social media moderator. She has led the group on the task of obtaining our 5013(c) status, and was our compass to ensure we stayed true to this mission. It saddens us to know that we were on the cusp of achieving this long term goal, and that Dee will not be here to appreciate the fruits of her labor.
Dee’s civic involvement spanned across many boards and committees, reflecting her dedication to improving Holliston for all its residents. She served on the Youth and Family Services Advisory Council, where she worked on initiatives supporting mental health and families until June 2023. Dee was known for her thoughtful insights and commitment to youth development.
Her role extended to Holliston’s Envisioning Future Holliston committee, where she contributed to long-term strategic planning for the town. As an alternate on the Human Services board, Dee brought her passion for social equity to the forefront, helping to shape Holliston’s future with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Dee’s advocacy went far beyond her leadership roles. She wasn’t afraid to push boundaries, asking tough questions and holding us accountable when it came to truly embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion. She urged us to think more deeply about how we could support underrepresented groups and inspired us to take meaningful action, not just settle for good intentions.
Dee leaves behind her husband, Kevin, and their two sons, Alexander and Malcolm, as well as cousins Sharmaine, Desmond, and Destini, who also live locally. To support her family during this difficult time, we are organizing a collection to help cover funeral expenses and offer additional support. If you would like to contribute, donations can be sent via Venmo to Barb Fritts Worby (@craig-worby). We are also helping her family to collect stories and memories to celebrate her life. If you have a story to share, please email it to info@diverseholliston.org. Your words will help her family and all of us keep her spirit alive.
Dee’s loss leaves a tremendous void in the community, but we are dedicated to carrying on the work she started and honoring her vision for a more just Holliston. Her legacy is a call to action for us all to continue pushing for a better, more inclusive community—just as she always did.
Thank you for helping us honor such a remarkable woman.
With love and in gratitude,
The Diverse Holliston Board Members
Funeral Service for Dee Phair
Visitation:
- Sunday, October 27th, 4:00-8:00 p.m.
- Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, 854 Washington St.
Funeral Service:
- Monday, October 28th, 11:00 a.m.
- First Congregational Church of Holliston, 725 Washington St.
For those unable to attend in person, a live-streaming option will be available here. In lieu of flowers, Kevin asks for stories of Dee that can be shared with their children as they grow older.
We hope you can join us to celebrate Dee’s life and legacy. If you wish to contribute to the funeral expenses you may Venmo contributions to Barb Fritts Worby (@Craig-Worby). If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out.
