Donor Spotlight: Fred Miller and Dr. Docia Hickey

Santa and Mrs. Claus deliver presents to resident Taylor during “Santa Day.”

For longtime supporters, Docia Hickey and Fred Miller, what began with bringing Christmas gifts to residents in the early 1990s became a lifelong commitment to Holy Angels. After serving for many years on our Board of Directors and Resource Development Committee, Docia knew she and her husband, Fred, still wanted to remain deeply connected to the community they had grown to love. Today, they continue sharing their hearts with Holy Angels through leadership, volunteerism, pet therapy visits, treasured holiday traditions and generous financial support.

Fred currently serves as Chair of our Human Rights Committee, where his compassion and advocacy help to ensure every resident is treated with dignity, respect and care. Together, Fred and Docia continue to support Holy Angels in countless ways, always stepping forward wherever there is a need.

Many residents and families know them best as one of Holy Angels’ favorite Christmas traditions—“Santa Day”—when Santa and Mrs. Claus personally deliver gifts to every home and every resident. For more than a decade, Fred and Docia have created memorable Christmas experiences filled with joy, laughter, photos and holiday cheer that leave lasting memories well beyond the season. Their generosity also extends to our annual gala, where they have donated their “Santa experience” as a live auction item for years in support of our mission.

Their love for Holy Angels is also reflected in their thoughtful legacy giving, helping to ensure future generations of residents will continue to experience the same compassionate care and opportunities that mean so much to them.

Kisses from Thea bring a smile to resident Skye during a visit in 2012.

In addition to their volunteer leadership and philanthropy, Fred and Docia share the healing comfort of pet therapy with residents. One especially meaningful “Mercy Moment” came through their former therapy dog, Thea. A resident who had always been nervous around dogs slowly began to relax and build trust with Thea. Watching other residents interact with her gave them the courage to join in and try petting her as well. What began as “I think I like you” eventually became “Thea, I love you!” Moments like these remind us how meaningful friendships and connections can be—even the furry kind.