Media Release - For Immediate Release

August 9 2010

Rev. Donald Edward Fairfax Passes Away

The University is saddened by the passing of Rev. Donald Edward Fairfax, a well-known voice in Halifax's religious community and an honorary degree recipient from Saint Mary's. He was 90 years old.

The Cherry Brook native was pastor of the Victoria Road United Baptist Church in Dartmouth for five decades, from 1947 to 1997. He was an award-winning singer and travelled around Canada and the United States. He was also principal of Nelson Whynder school, a commissioner for Nova Scotia Legal Aid, and a member of several boards.

Rev. Fairfax was presented and honorary doctorates from Saint Mary's in October 2007 in recognition of his significant record of public service. In 1981 he was inducted into the Black Wall of Fame, and four years later the Home for Coloured Children dedicated the Rev. D.E. Fairfax Chapel in honour of his involvement in the work of the home for more than 30 years.

In 1989 he was awarded the Ronald Stafford Memorial Award by the Nova Scotia Association of Social Workers for his outstanding community and social advocacy work in the City of Dartmouth and the Province of Nova Scotia. He was appointed to the Order of Canada in 1990.

Rev. Fairfax died Friday at Dartmouth General Hospital. A funeral service will take place Thursday Aug. 12 at First Baptist Church in Dartmouth.

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For More Information:

Steve Proctor
External Affairs
Saint Mary's University
(902) 420.5513
E-mail: steve.proctor@smu.ca
www.smu.ca

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