Leaders and friends from across the country are mourning the loss of Benjamin Lawson Hooks, minister, civil rights leader and attorney, who died at his home in Memphis, Tenn., Thu., April 15. He was 85.
In a statement by President Barack Obama, he called it an honor to have spent time with Hooks when he was running for office. He referred to Hooks’ “strong hand and nimble mind” who lead the NAACP and “inspired each and every one of us to play our part in forging a stronger nation for all Americans. Our national life is richer for the time Dr. Hooks spent on this Earth. And our union is more perfect for the way he spent it: giving a voice to the voiceless. Michelle and I offer our thoughts and prayers to his wife, Frances; his daughter, Patricia Gray; and all who knew Dr. Hooks through his extraordinary good works.” Obama said.
This article was previously available at The Washington Informer.
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