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Past and present members of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors are remembering former Sully District Supervisor Michael Frey as a devoted public servant, bipartisan problem-solver and tireless advocate for animals.
Frey, Sully District’s first supervisor, earned respect for his command of local issues and his commitment to transportation, parks, youth services and animal welfare. Colleagues also recalled the warmth and humor he brought to county government.
Former board Chairman Sharon Bulova described Frey as a caring, common-sense official who made fiscal decisions based on what would best serve the community, regardless of whether his party held the majority.
She also remembered his deep affection for animals. Police dogs visiting the board frequently gravitated toward Frey because he carried treats in his pockets. At his district office, rescued German shepherds Marley and Boomer greeted visitors, while guinea pigs, ferrets and other animals also found a home under his care.
When snow closed county facilities, Bulova said, Frey made extraordinary efforts to cross covered roads and parking lots so he could care for the animals in his office.
Former board Chairman Kate Hanley sat beside Frey when he first joined the board. She recalled his attention to residents’ concerns and the sharp but gentle humor he displayed during long and occasionally contentious meetings.
As chairman, Hanley worked with Frey across party lines on Sully District priorities, including the first version of the Route 28 and Route 29 interchange. She said he understood public service and represented both his district and Fairfax County admirably.
Hanley also discovered that Frey had been secretly slipping dog treats into her jacket pocket before recognition ceremonies for Virginia Task Force 1, explaining why the team’s canines were always so eager to approach her.
Hunter Mill District Supervisor Walter Alcorn first met Frey as a 20-year-old intern in 1987, when Frey served as chief of staff to Springfield Supervisor Elaine McConnell. Although they worked for officials on opposing political sides during a charged period, Alcorn said Frey treated him with kindness and made him feel welcome.
Years later, the two discussed the demands and rewards of adopting elderly animals. Frey was known for taking in pets others did not want, including a deaf and blind dog he had to carry. Alcorn said that level of care was simply who Frey was.
Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity remembered Frey as both a friend and mentor. Frey began working in local politics in 1978 for Herrity’s father, then chairman of the Board of Supervisors. Herrity later asked the board to name the county animal shelter for Frey in recognition of his advocacy.
Current board Chairman Jeff McKay said Frey paired deep expertise with genuine kindness. Whether addressing complicated land-use matters, discussing baseball or hearing from a concerned resident, Frey approached people with patience, respect and humor.
Current Sully District Supervisor Kathy Smith said Frey helped establish the foundation for the thriving community Sully has become. She worked alongside him while serving on the School Board and said his dedication continues to influence the district’s work.
Smith said Sully residents benefited from Frey’s commitment and will remember him as a leader who truly loved the community he served.