The community came together on Thursday to honor former Hartford Mayor Thirman Milner while he was lying in state at Hartford City Hall on Thursday.
Milner was the first Black mayor in all of New England and paved the way for future Black leaders. He died on Nov. 29 at the age of 91.
His nephew, Ted Milner flew in from California to honor his beloved uncle.
“I just remember him always showing us so much love,” he said.
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Ted Milner said he is grateful for his uncle who paved the way for so many people to have opportunities.
“When I look at Uncle Thirman sacrificing and giving his life for us and for people of color so we may have a better life, what an unselfish life to live,” he said.
Ted Milner said his uncle could be serious, but he always created moments of laughter.
“He was a joyful man and so anytime you are around him you are just cracking up, and most times he would just make fun of you,” Ted Milner said.
The Connecticut National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) said Thirman Milner will be remembered as a civil rights icon, community activist and dedicated public servant.
Milner led Hartford for six years, from 1981 to 1987, served as a state senator and he was the president of the Greater Hartford NAACP.
He was also a mentor for many politicians in Connecticut, both past and present, who said he created a path for them to be successful in pursuing public office.
Windsor Mayor Nuchette Black-Burke said she took to heart the advice he gave her about being an elected leader.
“To be able to be connected with the community, reach out to the community but first and foremost, also listen. Like, you must listen,” she said.
Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam said Thirman Milner’s legacy is felt in the hallways he once walked in.
“I think we can all feel the impact and it’s been such a huge piece of our city’s history and something we are really proud of, to be the city that elected the first Black mayor in New England,” Arulampalam said.
The lying-in-state ceremony was held at City Hall from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
