During the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors public meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24, Supervisor John W. Foust remembered Maestro Dingwall C. Fleary Jr., who died suddenly on New Year’s Eve, 2022, at the age of 82.

"For 50 years, [Fleary] brought his passion for music to his role as Maestro of the McLean Symphony," Foust said. He added that Fleary spent those years doing something he loved. "What an accomplishment," said Foust.

Fleary was a pianist, organist, conductor, teacher, lecturer, and orchestra builder. He was the founder and conductor of the McLean Symphony, as well as the Music Director of the Reston Community Orchestra. He was also the organist and music director of Bethesda's Emmanuel Lutheran Church.

"The McLean community is a much better community because of his many contributions. I am confident that his mark on McLean, especially the wonderful art community in McLean, will be felt for generations to come," Foust said.

According to the Reston Community Orchestra, the Virginia General Assembly and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recognized Fleary for his musical leadership. The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) honored Fleary twice for his innovative programming and support of American composers.

A celebration of life service was held at McLean High School Auditorium on Sunday, Jan. 8.