Yolanda Cellucci Obituary
Updated: Sep. 8, 2026
Yolanda Cellucci, the celebrated Massachusetts fashion designer, entrepreneur, philanthropist, author and television personality, has died at the age of 91.
Cellucci, a lifelong Waltham figure, became one of the Boston area’s most recognizable fashion personalities through her distinctive style, entrepreneurial career and decades of community service. News of her death was reported by local media, with tributes remembering her as a fashion icon, mentor and generous supporter of charitable causes.
Her signature look was difficult to miss. Cellucci was frequently seen in elaborate, glamorous outfits, often dressed entirely in white and adorned with rhinestones. Her personal style became part of the public image that made her a familiar presence across Massachusetts.
Yolanda’s Became a Waltham Institution
Cellucci built her reputation through her namesake business, Yolanda’s, in Waltham. The establishment brought several services together under one roof, including a dress boutique, beauty salon and health spa, later expanding its role as an event destination.
Her interest in fashion began long before she became a successful businesswoman. In a 2024 CBS Boston interview, Cellucci recalled making her own prom dress as a teenager after being unable to afford one. She chose silver sequins and fantasy tulle, created the dress herself and ultimately won her school’s prom queen title.
That creativity became the foundation for a career that eventually placed her alongside prominent entertainers, political figures and other public personalities.
Cellucci dressed celebrities including Fran Drescher and Natalie Cole and developed connections with figures such as former President Ronald Reagan and former House Speaker Tip O’Neill.
A Familiar Face on Massachusetts Television
Beyond fashion, Cellucci developed a substantial television presence. She appeared regularly on WCVB’s Chronicle and hosted her own cable-access program, giving viewers another opportunity to experience her personality and distinctive approach to fashion and entertainment.
Her influence has also been preserved through archival materials. The Phillips Library at the Peabody Essex Museum holds a collection of Yolanda Cellucci papers documenting her fashion business and public life, including press materials and photographs.
Philanthropy Was Central to Her Legacy
Cellucci’s impact extended well beyond fashion. She devoted decades to fundraising and volunteer work for organizations in the Waltham area.
For her 90th birthday in 2024, she helped raise more than $90,000 for five local organizations, including the Waltham Lions Club, Friends of the Waltham Senior Citizens, Middlesex Human Services Agency, the Salvation Army of Waltham and the Our Girl Linda Foundation.
The Our Girl Linda Foundation was established in memory of her daughter Linda Cole Petrosian, who died from cancer in 2018. Cellucci continued supporting charitable work connected to her daughter’s memory.
Her philanthropic commitment earned recognition from community organizations, including the Salvation Army, where she was honored for longstanding volunteer service.
Family and Legacy
Cellucci was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel B. Cellucci, who died in 2021, and her daughter Linda. Daniel’s obituary identifies Yolanda as his beloved wife and lists their surviving daughter, Sandra Damirjian, along with grandchildren.
She is survived by her daughter, Sandra “Sandi” Damirjian, and grandchildren.
For generations of people in Waltham and across the Boston area, Yolanda Cellucci represented a distinctive blend of fashion, entrepreneurship, television personality and community service. Her career was built around creativity, personal connection and a willingness to give back.
Funeral and memorial arrangements were not fully detailed in the initial reports reviewed for this article. Additional information should be added when confirmed by the family or funeral home.