BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Birmingham City Council yesterday, along with Mayor William A. Bell, announced the passing of City Council President Maxine Herring Parker, in a joint press conference.
Councilwoman Parker served on the council for over eight years and was recently elected Council President by her colleagues a few weeks ago, after being elected by voters to her third term of office. She is a former neighborhood leader and long-time assistant to the president at Talladega College. She retired after more than 40 years of service.
“We come together collectively to support her family during this time of bereavement and we ask that you lift the family up in prayer at this time,” said Council Pro-tem Jay Roberson. “The Council will govern ourselves accordingly as we move forward.”
Mayor Bell referred to Councilor Parker as a “gentlewoman, who was stern in her convictions.”
“She was very tough,” Bell said. “I guess that comes from her experience of working with 12 college presidents”
The Mayor has ordered that the city flags be flown at half-staff in her honor.
Bell encouraged continued support of her legacy of protecting the environment and building stronger neighborhoods throughout North Birmingham.
Councilor Steven Hoyt stressed the importance of faith during times of grief. “Councilor Parker loved God and she led a Christian life,” Hoyt said. “We must keep our trust in God.”
Birmingham Councilor Sheila Tyson stated :”We are filled with sadness and grief over the loss of Councilor Maxine Parker.”
“I’ve known Mrs. Parker for over 20 years, and she always personified class, grace, and a quiet strength. She didn’t have to speak loudly, because her actions did the talking for her.”
“Many people know that Councilor Parker was a passionate advocate for environmental justice in her community. She went to the mat to protect the citizens in her district, and we pledge to continue bringing a voice to the issues that were important to her.”
“As Council President, Mrs. Parker emphasized that as our sole responsibility as city councilors is to represent the needs of our constituents, and that we have a duty to cooperate with one another for the good of Birmingham. When she spoke, we listened.”
“Councilor Parker just brought a genuine and sincere leadership to the Council.”
“We all lost a mentor and a friend today. I just ask the members of the Birmingham community to join us in lifting up Councilor Parker’s family through prayer during this difficult time.”
No arrangements have been announced at this time. The president pro-tem will preside over council meetings until a new council president is elected.
The council will appoint a replacement to fill her district 4 seat at the appropriate time.
