Caroline Grace Fairley of Sag Harbor Dies July 22

Caroline Grace Fairley, affectionately known as “Caro,” passed away unexpectedly in her home in Sag Harbor on the afternoon of July 22, 2025.

Born on July 19,1952 to Muriel Galletly and William Knox Angus in Newcastle-upon-Tyne in Northumberland, England, Caro moved at a young age to a small village called Swallowfield in Berkshire, England. She was the youngest of her siblings Susie Dixon Roberts, Humphrey Dixon, and Helen Angus Campbell. Caro’s first love was the theatre, and she studied drama at the Guildford School of Acting before embarking on a stage career in repertory theatre in London in the 1970s. Returning from a two-year trip to Australia, Caro was reintroduced to old acquaintance Peter Fairley, and the pair wed in Henley-on-Thames in 1984.

As a couple, Peter and Caro built a wonderful life on the Upper West Side of New York City, welcoming their daughter, Anna Grace, in August 1990. Caro found much joy in raising Anna, enthusiastically embracing life as a mother and getting involved in the various communities of Anna’s life. Caro was happiest spending time with her family at home in Sag Harbor; be it in her garden, playing bridge, or swimming laps.

Caro’s eye for design was legendary; and her career took her to showrooms around New York City. While her own homes sparkled with warmth and love, countless friends were also beneficiaries of Caro’s discerning guidance. Many of them have Caro to thank for special touches in their homes, and her presence will continue to be keenly felt in those spaces.

In later years, Peter and Caro split their time between Sag Harbor and Hutchinson Island, Florida. Mostly retired, they had time to expand their circle of friends and travel. Wherever she was, Caro’s deeply rooted English sensibilities shone through.

Caro was steadfastly devoted to Peter and Anna, the two great loves of her life. She was also a loyal and true friend, sister and daughter. With the constant twinkle in her eye and her zest for what made it all worthwhile, it was easy to love Caro, and everyone around her did. She is survived by her beloved husband Peter, daughter Anna and son-in law Blaine Doherty, as well as her brother and sisters, and countless friends who embraced her as family themselves. She will be missed beyond measure.

Caro will be remembered at a memorial service with details forthcoming.