Donald E. Callender

Donald E. Callender was born on August 7, 1928, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Geraldine Callender. He grew up on Harrishof Street alongside his identical twin brother, Dexter, surrounded by a large and loving extended family. The St. Mark Congregational Church served as their spiritual home and the foundation for many of the family's lifelong connections. Donald attended Boston Public Schools and graduated from Roxbury Memorial High School, setting the stage for a life marked by service, leadership, and creativity.

In June 1946, just after finishing high school, Donald enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He served as a mechanic in Japan during the post-World War II period and the Korean Conflict, proudly contributing his skills to his country. After his honorable discharge in 1952, he began a new chapter working for General Motors at the Framingham plant. His dedication and discipline later led him to a career in public safety. In 1968, he joined the police force of the Metropolitan District Commission (MDC), where his professionalism and leadership earned him a series of promotions-first to Sergeant, then Lieutenant, and eventually Captain. Over the years, he commanded the Old Colony station at Carson Beach, the Revere Beach station, and the Blue Hills Reservation station at Houghton's Pond. When the MDC was absorbed into the Massachusetts State Police in 1992, Donald made history as the first Black officer to be promoted to either Lieutenant or Captain-a milestone he carried with quiet pride.

Outside of his uniform, Donald's spirit was expressive and artistic. Music was one of his lifelong companions, and his love for performance spanned genres and generations. While stationed in Japan, he treasured his time singing in the chorus of a performance of *Handel's Messiah*.

Back home, he continued to share his talents through community theatre, performing with the Robert Gould Shaw House and in productions at the Elma Lewis School of Fine Arts.

Donald's curiosity and love of learning never faded. In his later years, he attended the University of Massachusetts Boston, where he earned his bachelor's degree. He also became an active member of the historic Prince Hall Masonic Lodge and dedicated his time to the Carter Post American Legion Post 16 and VFW Post 1018.

A man of many passions, Donald loved to travel, to host, and to celebrate life's pleasures. He developed a refined taste for food and wine, and his famous summer fish fries became legendary gatherings of family and friends-filled with laughter, good conversation, and his generous spirit.

Donald cherished his deep and lasting friendships and valued the close ties he shared with family throughout his life, especially with his beloved brother, Dexter. He is survived by Dexter Sr.; his nieces Ivy and Susan; nephews Dexter Jr. and Grant; cousins Patty Bell and Michelle Hazard, grand nieces Sue and Sarah, grand nephews Dexter Ill, Charles, Alfie and Eamon, a wide circle of cousins, extended family, and friends whose lives he deeply touched.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald E. Callender, please visit our floral store.