Delois “Dee” Laws, born on November 30, 1944, in Birmingham, Alabama, to the late Mary Laws, was a beacon of love and strength throughout her life. After attending college and nursing school, Dee embraced motherhood with her daughter Shelande Laws, and in 1969, she made the courageous move to Boston, Massachusetts. It was there that she found true love with her late husband, Robert Adams Jr. Together, they created a beautiful blended family, welcoming their son Kenny Laws and raising their beloved granddaughter Starleshia “Star” Laws as their own daughter.

Dee was a dedicated worker, known for her tireless spirit and remarkable work ethic. For nearly 40 years, she served with unwavering dedication in the City of Boston’s Property Management department, in addition to working for the City of Boston Credit Union. Her outspoken, “tell it like it is” nature fueled her to play a pivotal role in organizing Boston City Hall employees to unionize and join SEIU Local 285, which later became SEIU Local 888—the union representing many City of Boston employees today. As one of the original leaders in the unionization effort, Dee helped rally her colleagues and served on the bargaining team for several years. She was also a founding member of the SEIU AFRAM–Black Caucus, fighting for the rights of Black union members. Dee retired from her City role in 2013 but continued her dedicated service with the Credit Union until 2017.

A woman of many passions, Dee had an extraordinary talent for cooking, a true Southern chef at heart and found immense joy in preparing meals for her loved ones. Equally, she couldn’t resist the pleasure of dancing to any good beat. Dee’s joy for dancing was infectious, lighting up any room as she moved effortlessly to the rhythm. Her vibrant spirit and deep care for others were evident in everything she did, from her work to the way she nurtured those around her. Her family was her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them."

On October 15, 2024, the Lord called Dee home to glory, where she is now reunited with her mother, Mary Laws, and her siblings Robert, Veronica, and Oscar Laws. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories, mourned by her children, Shelande Laws and Kenny Laws, her granddaughter/daughter Starleshia “Star” Laws, her grandchildren Justyce, Javonny, Jaylen, and Kaiya Laws, and her great-grandson Jermaine Laws. Dee is also survived by countless nieces, nephews, and a host of family and friends who will miss her dearly.

Star and Jermaine extend heartfelt thanks to Kelly Sheehan for the exceptional love and care given to Dee at the Newton Wellesley Center for Alzheimer’s. They would also like to express their gratitude to the dedicated aides, nurses, and staff who supported Dee with compassion and kindness during her time there. The family further extends their appreciation to Christina Barboza of Dolan Funeral Home, the City of Boston, the City of Boston Credit Union, Local SEIU 888, and Pastor James M. Harrison of South Baptist Church in Roxbury and New Faith Missionary Baptist Church. Your support has meant the world to us.

Visitation will be held at the Dolan Funeral Home, 1140 Washington Street, DORCHESTER LOWER MILLS on Wednesday, October 23rd from 11AM - 12PM. Funeral Service to begin at 12PM. Interment at Cedar Grove Cemetery. Relatives and friends invited.