New Orleans is in a state of mourning after the passing of Sybil Haydel Morial, the first African American First Lady of the city. Mayor LaToya Cantrell announced this saddening news, marking the city's loss of a formidable civil rights champion and an influential figure in the community.
"The City of New Orleans and her residents are in mourning as we bid farewell to Sybil Haydel Morial. Mrs. Morial was a New Orleans treasure and trailblazer as the first African American First Lady of the City of New Orleans," Mayor Cantrell said, in a statement obtained by Nola.gov. The city's flag will be lowered to half-staff as a sign of honor and respect for Mrs. Morial's contributions.
Sybil Haydel Morial, who was 91 at the time of her passing, was more than just the widow of Ernest "Dutch" Morial, New Orleans' first African American mayor. She was a mother to Marc Morial, former mayor and noted figure, in his own right. Her life was rich with accomplishment, including a longstanding commitment to education, having impacted numerous lives during her tenure at Xavier University.
"The historic service of Mrs. Morial, and her late husband Ernest 'Dutch' Morial, will always be remembered as a shining legacy of love and inspiring leadership for the City of New Orleans," Cantrell expressed. The Morial family's legacy is intertwined with the city's progress, particularly in terms of civil rights and education. Mrs. Morial's tenure at Xavier University spanned over 28 years, where she served as an Associate Dean and Administrator, deeply influencing students and colleagues alike, as per Nola.gov.
The loss of such a pivotal figure is deeply felt within the community, as shared by Mayor Cantrell's heartfelt message. The city extends its deepest sympathies to her family, friends, and all those moved by her life's work. Mayor Cantrell concluded, "We will forever be grateful for all the lives she blessed throughout her life. May she now rest in God's perfect peace," according to Nola.gov.
