News Summary
Virgil Clark Smith, a renowned judge and lawmaker, has passed away at 77, leaving a legacy of public service in Michigan. He was the first Black chief judge of the Wayne County Circuit Court and served with distinction in the state legislature. A devoted advocate for justice and education reform, Smith’s contributions are remembered as significant milestones in Michigan’s history. His family and the community prepare to honor his legacy through a memorial service.
Detroit – Virgil Clark Smith, a trailblazing judge and lawmaker, passed away on June 23 at the age of 77, as announced by his family. Smith was a significant figure in Michigan politics and the judiciary, serving 14 years as a Wayne County Circuit Court judge from 2004, where he made history as the court’s first Black chief judge.
Before his tenure on the bench, Smith held various prestigious positions that shaped his career. He served as the chief of staff at the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, having been appointed by Mike Duggan following his election as county prosecutor in 2000. A member of the Democratic Party, Smith represented the 2nd Senatorial District in the Michigan Senate from 1988 to 2000, where he was notable for being the first Black minority floor leader in that chamber. Prior to his Senate role, he served in the Michigan House of Representatives from 1977 to 1988, representing the 10th District.
Throughout his legislative career, Smith played a pivotal role in various reforms, particularly concerning the Michigan courts and the education system in Detroit. He was an outspoken critic of the constitutional term limits for Michigan lawmakers, which were approved by voters in 1992. Smith expressed concerns that such limits would undermine the quality of representation for citizens. Additionally, he was proud of his involvement in legislation promoting disinvestment in South Africa during the apartheid era.
Smith was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and had been battling health issues for several years. He was hospitalized on April 7, where he faced kidney failure along with other complications that eventually led to his passing.
Born and raised in Detroit, Smith graduated from Pershing High School in 1965. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Michigan State University in 1969, followed by a law degree from Wayne State University in 1972. Outside of his professional life, Smith enjoyed leisure activities such as riding his motor scooter and kayaking on the Detroit River.
He is survived by his first wife, Evelyn Owens Smith, with whom he had two children, Virgil and Adam, and his second wife, Elizabeth Little Smith, with whom he had two additional children, Anthony and Jordan. He also leaves behind two grandchildren. His son, Virgil K. Smith, followed in his father’s political footsteps by serving in the Michigan Senate, fondly recalling his father’s determination and efficacy in achieving legislative goals.
A memorial service to celebrate Smith’s life is being planned, with further details to be announced in due course. The legacy left by Virgil Clark Smith serves as a testament to his commitment to public service, justice, and the significant advancements he achieved in Michigan’s legal and educational landscapes.
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- Detroit Free Press
- Wikipedia: Virgil C. Smith
- Click On Detroit
- Google Search: Virgil C. Smith
- Michigan Chronicle
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Virgil C. Smith
- Deadline Detroit
- Google News: Virgil C. Smith
