Former Ald. Dolores Holmes, Longtime Leader And Pillar Of Evanston Community, Dies At 86

EVANSTON, IL — Revered Evanston community leader and former Ald. Delores Holmes died Tuesday at the age of 86 following a prolonged illness.

Holmes leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service spanning more than five decades. Her death was announced by family members and confirmed by city officials in a statement on Wednesday morning.

Known for her advocacy for youth and families and dedication to equity and community development, Holmes served three terms on the Evanston City Council, representing the 5th Ward from 2005 to 2017.

Before her tenure on the council, Holmes co-founded and led Family Focus, a nonprofit organization designed to support children and families, for 27 years. Her efforts made Family Focus a cornerstone of community support, offering early childhood education and youth outreach programs.

"It’s hard to imagine an Evanston without Delores Holmes, but we can and must benefit from the blueprint for caring and service that she left us," said Mayor Daniel Biss.

Holmes was an extraordinary person who has affected so many lives and will never be forgotten, her family said in a statement on social media.

"A mother, a grandmother, a church mother, a sorority mother, a mother to her entire community. A pillar of strength and compassion in every aspect of her life," her family said. "A real-life superhero. She worked tirelessly for change, for good, and for what was right."

Throughout her career, Holmes pushed for improved programs for young Evanstonians, notably by expanding the Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program and establishing the city’s Youth and Young Adult Division. Both city initiatives offer support, job opportunities and mentorship for the city's underserved youth.

In addition to her work with Family Focus and her time as alderwoman, Holmes remained a vital part of the community, even in her later years. She participated in key events and causes despite battling a serious illness, attending a zoning reform event less than two weeks before she died.

“I wouldn’t miss it," she told the mayor, he recalled.

In a message following her death, Biss described Holmes as a giant in the community.

"Delores regularly spoke up at City Council meetings, and when she did so you could always see a change in the attitude not only of the elected officials but of the whole room," Biss said.

"People listened carefully when she spoke," he said, "not only because of their respect for her stature and service but also because of their genuine affection for her."

Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (D-Evanston) said in a statement the city has lost a gracious leader and fierce advocate.

“Delores was truly a treasured friend of mine," Schakowsky said. "My heart breaks for her family and all those who loved her. She will be deeply missed by all corners of the Evanston community and beyond. Her impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.”