LIFE’S REFLECTIONS

Lillie Mae Fain

“Mama or Grandmama”

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

Lillie Mae Fain was born on April 18, 1927, in Dallas, Texas, to the late George Henry Boles and Lillie Pearl Boles. A proud lifelong resident of the Oak Cliff community, she lived a life of remarkable service, leadership, and devotion to her faith, family, and civic responsibility. She peacefully passed away at the age of 98.

Growing up in Golden Gate Missionary Baptist Church, Lillie Mae accepted Christ at an early age. She was a longtime member of Golden Gate, where she faithfully served the children and youth ministries for more than 50 years, including several years as Youth Director. She later became an active member of Greater Golden Gate Missionary Baptist Church, continuing her commitment to nurturing and guiding future generations.

Lillie Mae received her formal education in Dallas, attending N. W. Harllee and Lincoln High School. From an early age, she demonstrated a deep commitment to community involvement and public service—values that guided her throughout her life.

For many years, the Dallas community benefited from the vision and leadership of Lillie Mae Fain. Her community service began in the 1950s and 1960s, when she dedicated herself to enhancing public education by serving as president of both the N. W. Harllee and Franklin D. Roosevelt Parent Teacher Associations. Her advocacy for children and families laid the foundation for decades of meaningful civic engagement.

In the late 1960s, Lillie Mae turned her focus to voter registration and civic participation. She became a trusted and welcomed volunteer on numerous political campaigns and was later elected to public office, serving as Chair of Precinct 3320 for six years. Her passion for empowering citizens, particularly first-time voters, was one of her greatest joys and lasting contributions.

Beginning in 1971, Lillie Mae was employed by the Dallas County Elections Department, serving as a Deputy Community Relations Specialist until her retirement in 1995. Demonstrating her unwavering dedication, she later returned to serve part-time as a Phone Bank Personnel Manager, retiring for a second time after continuing to support the department she loved.

Throughout her lifetime, Lillie Mae received numerous awards and commendations recognizing her exceptional service and impact on the community. She was respected and admired by local, state, and federal officials, as well as by the countless individuals whose lives she touched through her work, mentorship, and leadership.

Lillie Mae Fain lived a life defined by purpose, faith, and service. Her legacy remains deeply rooted in the Oak Cliff community and lives on through the generations she inspired. Her memory will forever remain a blessing.

Lillie Mae was preceded in death by her parents, George Henry Boles and Lillie Pearl Boles; her three brothers, Clarence Boles, Leonard Boles, and John Boles; and her oldest son, Nathaniel Boles.

She leaves six children to cherish her memories: Elizabeth Lloyd (Lawrence), Myra Fain, Norris D. Fain, Nedra Fain, Delbert Fain (Chalisa), and Bryon Fain (Teresa); 23 grandchildren; along with a host of great-grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends.