Michigan's legal and political spheres are marking the passing of a prominent figure this week. Virgil C. Smith, a former lawmaker and the first African-American chief judge of the Michigan 3rd Circuit Court, died on Monday at the age of 77 after a longstanding battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), complications from which also led to kidney failure, as reported by ClickOnDetroit and The Detroit News.
Smith's political career spanned over two decades, during which time he served in both the Michigan House of Representatives (1977-1988) and the Michigan Senate (1988-2000). He broke ground, notably becoming the first African American minority floor leader in the history of the Michigan Senate, and sought to continuously improve the very fabric of Michigan's institutions. Notably, "he played a significant role in the reorganization of Detroit schools, which took place in 1999," as noted by The Detroit News.
Following his legislative career, Smith transitioned to the judiciary when he was appointed by Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm to the 3rd Circuit Court in Wayne County in 2004. As a relatively high-profile judge, he served 14 years on the bench, including a term as chief judge where he secured funding for court operations and implemented a new case management system. The Detroit Free Press reported Smith's commitment to the law and his role as a political mentor to many.
Outside the courtroom and away from the legislative chambers, Smith was known to embrace life with passions that were simple but profound. He loved to ride his motor scooter and kayak in the Detroit River. U.S. Representative Shri Thanedar remembered Smith on social media, saying, "His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched through public service and the pursuit of justice," as per a report by The Detroit News. Memorial services for Smith have yet to be to be announced by the family.
