The Community Foundation for MetroWest is deeply saddened by the passing of Woolsey S. Conover, one of our original founders and a foundational leader in creating the Foundation.
Woolsey played an instrumental role in establishing the Foundation in 1995 and served as its inaugural Chairman of the Board from 1995 to 2000. Those who worked alongside him often described him as “the glue that held us all together.” He brought vision, humor, wisdom, and perhaps most importantly, a genuine ability to listen and bring people together around a shared purpose.
Building a community foundation from the ground up required persistence and belief in what was possible. Woolsey provided both. His steady leadership during the Foundation’s formative years helped turn a bold idea into an enduring institution that continues to strengthen philanthropy and community across MetroWest.
Woolsey’s commitment to community extended far beyond the Foundation. A Founder and Principal of Consolidated Group Trust in Framingham, he also led numerous civic, cultural, educational, and conservation organizations. Among his many roles, he served as Director and Board Chair of the MetroWest YMCA and MetroWest Chamber of Commerce, Trustee of the Danforth Museum of Art and The Rivers School, Director of the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education, Chair of the Board of Governors for the Copley Art Society of Boston, and Director of the Appalachian Mountain Club.
Woolsey was also an artist, a part of his life that reflected his curiosity, creativity, and deep appreciation for the world around him. For many years, he studied, drew, and painted simply for the creative pleasure it brought him. His work was influenced by artists such as Edward Hopper and Fairfield Porter, and his paintings often reflected his connection to the landscapes and places he loved. His artistic legacy remains a meaningful part of the Community Foundation for MetroWest: several of Woolsey’s works are displayed in the Foundation, where they continue to bring beauty and a tangible connection to his spirit to those who work and gather here.
After moving to New Hampshire, Woolsey continued his lifelong commitment to community and conservation through leadership roles with New Hampshire Public Radio, the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, and the Museum of the White Mountains, among many other organizations.
“Woolsey was the heart and vision behind the creation of this Foundation,” said Jay Kim, Executive Director of the CFMW. “He had a rare gift for bringing people together and making sure everyone had a seat at the table. His leadership, generosity, and genuine care for others shaped this organization in ways that continue to impact thousands of lives today. We are exceptionally fortunate to have benefited from his wisdom and friendship.”
In 2019, the Foundation had the distinct honor of celebrating Woolsey as our Community Philanthropist Honoree. The tribute video captures his humor, warmth, and the profound impact he had on those who knew and worked alongside him.
Watch the 2019 Tribute to Woolsey S. Conover
Woolsey’s legacy lives on through the institutions he helped build, the people he inspired, the artwork he created, and the spirit of generosity, curiosity, and community he championed throughout his life.
We extend our deepest condolences to Woolsey’s wife, Bea, and to his family, friends, and colleagues.
