Remembering Lorraine Steele

We’re all still a bit shocked, but we lost an amazing woman a few days after the fun of the BBQ. Lorraine Steele, an absolute fixture in our neighborhood, unofficially dubbed the “Mayor of Durham Street”, gardener extraordinaire and SW Corridor champion, vital board member of the SBNA including as social chair and then treasurer, dear friend to us all, and devoted partner to Lee…there are not enough words to describe how much she meant to us and how much we will miss her. Next time you are walking down Durham Street or the SW corridor gardens, enjoy the beauty and send a smile to her memory.
Click here for Lorraine's Obituary 
Thank you, Lorraine, for all you did for us, for all you did with us - and for being our friend, our neighbor, and a joyful presence in our lives.

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Remembering Marty Samuels
We have lost a long-time neighbor, Dr. Marty Samuels of Durham Street on June 6, 2023.  Accomplished doctor, wonderful person, and beloved neighbor. Maybe you knew him professionally, due to his groundbreaking work in neurology. Perhaps you knew him as the friendly, engaging neighbor, out walking his dogs, Sydney and Ralphie, with his beloved wife, Susan Pioli. Perhaps you knew him as the owner of the cute sportscar with the “Neuron” license plate. If you knew him even a little, you liked him. If you knew him well, you loved him. Please keep Marty’s wife Susan in your thoughts and for a reminder of what an extraordinary human being Marty was, here's a link to a thoughtful tribute in the Boston Globe.

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Our friend and neighbor John Morse

John, a longtime resident and neighborhood friend, passed away on Monday, January 11th, 2021. John moved to Durham Street in the 1970s and was actively involved with the first neighborhood association (SBCC) and the SBNA. As an appointed member to the St. Botolph Architectural Conservation District Commission for many years, John was vigilant in providing guidance to neighbors and developers on the architectural requirements of our historic district. After John retired from Polaroid, he could always be seen chatting with neighbors on his walks or while on his way to volunteer somewhere. John’s friendly manner and big smile was a joy to everyone and he will be missed.  John is survived by his lovely wife, Virginia.

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Remembering Joe Coppola

Joe Coppola, owner of Copley House and numerous other apartment buildings in the St Botolph neighborhood, passed away on February 16, 2025, at 90 years old. 
The neighborhood has lost a dear friend and community champion. Joe was a generous and faithful supporter of the SBNA and always there to offer help and colorful stories from our neighborhood’s past. We will miss him. Take a minute to read about him and why he was a unique presence in our community. Obituary RIP, dear friend Joe.

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Remembering Lillian Seay 

More sad news about another wonderful long-term resident on Durham Street.  Lillian Seay, who supported the association for many years, died on July 12th, 2025. Lillian was born on August 15, 1945, the youngest of five children to Howard and Mary Seay. She was educated in the Boston Public School system, Boston Clerical, the University of Massachusetts, and Northeastern University. Lillian loved her church, family, and education. It was rare that she spoke to you without leaving a few points to ponder. Rest in peace Lillian.

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