Hagerstown, MD — The Doleman Black Heritage Museum announces with deep sorrow the passing of two cherished leaders whose lives and service were integral to the museum’s mission and growth.
Mrs. Deborah Lee Parson, Gallery Manager for DBHM, passed away on November 20, 2025. Deborah served the museum with dedication, warmth, and professionalism, ensuring that each visitor’s experience was welcoming, meaningful, and grounded in respect for history. Her commitment to the gallery’s daily operations and her unwavering support for the museum’s work left a lasting imprint on the organization and on all who had the privilege of working alongside her.
Mr. Herman “Skip” Davis, Jr., former President and current Vice President of DBHM, passed away on December 16, 2025. Affectionately known as “Mr. Skip,” he was a founding force, visionary leader, and tireless ambassador for the museum. His advocacy on behalf of DBHM spanned local, state, and congressional levels, and his leadership helped shape the museum’s future home project and long-term vision. Mr. Skip also served as the museum’s award-winning in-house photographer and a devoted member of the Friends of DBHM, contributing countless hours of service marked by humility, discipline, and integrity.
Together, Deborah Parson and Herman “Skip” Davis, Jr. exemplified the spirit of service, stewardship, and community that defines the Doleman Black Heritage Museum. Their contributions helped preserve history, strengthen partnerships, and advance the museum’s mission to honor and uplift Black heritage.
In honor of their extraordinary commitment to DBHM, the Doleman Black Heritage Museum will dim its gallery lights beginning December 24 and throughout the holiday season as a quiet, reverent tribute to their lives, service, and enduring legacy.
The Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, and Friends of DBHM extend heartfelt condolences to the Parson and Davis families, and to all who loved and respected these remarkable individuals. Their legacies will continue to guide and inspire the museum’s work for generations to come.
Further information regarding memorial arrangements and opportunities to honor their lives will be shared as it becomes available.
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At Doleman Black Heritage Museum, Inc., we know that change starts with people like you. Every act of kindness, every dollar, and every moment of your time brings us closer to achieving our mission. Together, we can create a brighter, more compassionate world for all.
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About the Doleman Black Heritage Museum
The Doleman Black Heritage Museum is dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the rich history and cultural legacy of Black communities in Hagerstown and Washington County, Maryland.
