Henry Louis “Hank” Aaron, baseball’s home run king and Atlanta’s favorite player, died Friday. He was 86.
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms issued the following statement:
”Derek, our family and I join the nation in sending heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Billye Aaron, the beautiful wife of Henry “Hank” Aaron for nearly 50 years, and the entire family. This is a considerable loss for the entire city of Atlanta. While the world knew him as ‘Hammering Hank Aaron’ because of his incredible, record-setting baseball career, he was a cornerstone of our village, graciously and freely joining Mrs. Aaron in giving their presence and resources toward making our city a better place. As an adopted son of Atlanta, Mr. Aaron was part of the fabric that helped place Atlanta on the world stage. Our gratitude, thoughts and prayers are with the Aaron family.”
DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond said: “DeKalb County mourns the loss of Hank Aaron, America’s home run king. Hank was more than baseball. He was a leader, philanthropist, and civil rights icon. Inducted to the Baseball Hall of Fame and named one of the 100 Greatest Baseball Players, Hank Aaron’s tremendous impact on Atlanta and the world will live on for generations”
They weren’t the only official to mark Aaron’s passing. Politicians and other dignitaries posted tributes and condolences for his family.
Hank Aaron was one of the best baseball players we’ve ever seen and one of the strongest people I’ve ever met. Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to the Aaron family and everyone who was inspired by this unassuming man and his towering example. pic.twitter.com/2RZdc82Y18
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) January 22, 2021
Hank Aaron’s entire life was a home run. My full statement about one of baseball's greatest heroes, an inspiring role model and philanthropist, and a wonderful friend here: https://t.co/uEjSPYD3Qq pic.twitter.com/Tx7NPlMkC2
— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) January 22, 2021
Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter's statement on the passing of Hank Aaron, courtesy @CarterCenter https://t.co/MUFIZiZakR pic.twitter.com/9C2p0bSM4v
— Jimmy Carter Presidential Library (@CarterLibrary) January 22, 2021
As a proud Georgian & American, I celebrate the life and mourn the passing of Hank Aaron - a sports icon who broke records on the field, while also breaking barriers in the field of civil rights and human relations.
— Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (@ReverendWarnock) January 22, 2021
I join the entire state in mourning the passing of a great Georgian, Hank Aaron, and sending heartfelt condolences to his wife Billye, his children, his brother-in-law Congressman David Scott, and all those who loved him.
— Nikema Williams (@DPGChair) January 22, 2021
America lost an extraordinary soul in @HenryLouisAaron. On the field, he brought power + purpose. In the community, Hank Aaron invested in progress, in people & in dreams. May his wife, Billye, his family and friends find peace in their sorrow, knowing how deeply he was loved. pic.twitter.com/TlFNuG9x0a
— Stacey Abrams (@staceyabrams) January 22, 2021
A legendary athlete, a pioneer of integration, and a Georgian whose dignity and purpose in the face of racial terror served as an inspiration for a generation of Black southerners, Hank Aaron will be sorely missed. We must commit to honoring and continuing his legacy.
— Georgia Democrats (@GeorgiaDemocrat) January 22, 2021
Hank Aaron:A hero against racial odds.He could not stay in the same hotel w/his teammates. A champion. He rode on the people’s shoulders as we looked upon him in adoration.A hero.We rode on his shoulders.He lifted us to higher heights.He was the undisputed champion of home runs. pic.twitter.com/08WT5tjw0D
— Rev Jesse Jackson Sr (@RevJJackson) January 22, 2021
Hank Aaron was not only a home run king, but a king of justice. In the face of racism and vitriol, he broke through barriers with grace on his way to becoming one of the greatest baseball players of all-time. We've lost a true trailblazer and American icon.
— Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) January 22, 2021
May he rest in peace. https://t.co/HXD5bqGbnm
One of the heroes of my youth. Because Richmond’s AAA team was a Braves farm team for so long, Hank and his brother Tommie were well loved in our town. https://t.co/jbkYxGqmyQ
— Tim Kaine (@timkaine) January 22, 2021
Today, the world lost a true baseball legend.
— James E. Clyburn (@WhipClyburn) January 22, 2021
Hank Aaron was arguably one of the greatest players of all time and achieved greatness in an environment that was often hostile to Black players.
His legacy will endure forever and he will be truly missed.
Henry Louis “Hank” Aaron.
— John O. Brennan (@JohnBrennan) January 22, 2021
The epitome of an American hero, whose greatness was always cloaked in dignity, decency, and humility.
Meeting him was a highlight of my life.
May his beautiful wife Billye find solace and comfort in wonderful memories of their life together. pic.twitter.com/m28ItApgca
From being a young man who couldn’t afford baseball equipment to an @MLB legend, Hank Aaron personified the American Dream.
— Tim Scott (@SenatorTimScott) January 22, 2021
A giant on the field and off, he used his influence to champion civil rights.
I pray his legacy continues to live through us as we model his example.
Hall of Famer Hank Aaron broke records and barriers in his extraordinary life. His example of courage and humility will live on. May he rest in peace. https://t.co/1IEGHSM66J
— Rep. Mike Johnson (@RepMikeJohnson) January 22, 2021
Mourning the passing of Hammerin’ Hank Aaron. A powerhouse on the field for 23 years, he used his stature as a slugger to become a champion for social justice after retirement. A Hall of Fame American if there ever was one. RIP Hank. https://t.co/gqBguW75QF
— Jim #MaskUpPHL Kenney (@PhillyMayor) January 22, 2021
While establishing himself as one of the best baseball players we have ever seen and setting an example on and off the field - Hank Aaron somehow always managed to stay humble.
— Lucy McBath (@lucymcbath) January 22, 2021
My prayers are with his family, in particular his wife Billye, during this difficult time. https://t.co/1kXfTcBO7W
Sports teams, both near and far, and athletes honored Aaron on social media, too.
Baseball great Willie Mays issued this statement: “I am very sad today to hear about the passing of Hank Aaron. Hank was a great ballplayer who played hard every day and accomplished so much on and off the field. Although we were never teammates, we played in many All Star Games together and I enjoyed our friendship over the years.
“He was a very humble and quiet man and just simply a good guy. I have so many fond memories of Hank and will miss him very much.”
The word that keeps coming to me when I think about Hank Aaron Is Love. He was the epitome of it. Every conversation and every meeting you had with him he made you feel loved. A legend in every sense of the word, Hank has meant so much to me and so much to
— Freddie Freeman (@FreddieFreeman5) January 22, 2021
A pillar of Atlanta sports is gone too soon.
— Atlanta Gladiators (@atlgladiators) January 22, 2021
Rest in peace, Hank Aaron 🙏 pic.twitter.com/UGWFtcBHNk
We are forever grateful for Hank Aaron’s example of courage, integrity, and love. He has inspired and opened doors for so many Black men in the professional sport of baseball as well as in life. We thank you for the unwavering support and showing us the the impossible is possible pic.twitter.com/CVN9eEgOFK
— Morehouse Athletics (@MaroonTigers) January 22, 2021
We are deeply saddened at the passing of Hank Aaron, an icon in the sports world and the city of Atlanta.#GSUnited | #OurCity pic.twitter.com/wRYotKmTBO
— Georgia State Panthers (@GSUPanthers) January 22, 2021
Hank Aaron was a LEGEND! @MLB My Hero pic.twitter.com/2OLiDZY9uE
— COACH PRIME (@DeionSanders) January 22, 2021
We join our baseball family in mourning the loss of Hammerin' Hank Aaron, a true legend on and off the field. https://t.co/0yagM6sKKp
— Pirates (@Pirates) January 22, 2021
Hammerin’ Hank Aaron, we are all forever indebted to you. pic.twitter.com/ajFcM2uWQF
— Baltimore Orioles 😷 (@Orioles) January 22, 2021
We join the baseball community in mourning the passing of Hall of Famer Hank Aaron. The Los Angeles Dodgers send their condolences to the Aaron family and the Braves organization during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/Uo7qGOrZfq
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) January 22, 2021
We join Major League Baseball in mourning the loss of Hall of Famer, Hank Aaron. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time 💙 pic.twitter.com/EiFaQMOaxG
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) January 22, 2021
Statement from head coach Danny Hall on the passing of Hank Aaron pic.twitter.com/VQMo8RnAhI
— Georgia Tech Baseball (@GTBaseball) January 22, 2021
I loved getting to spend some time with Hank Aaron a few years ago. He was a legend in every way! RIP pic.twitter.com/c56h79qJfj
— Coach Kirby Smart (@KirbySmartUGA) January 22, 2021
RIP Hank Aaron. An amazing ball player and a true gentleman. I am so honored to have spent time with you and call you a friend. You will be missed!
— Barry Larkin (@BarryLarkin) January 22, 2021
Honoring an icon.
— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) January 22, 2021
Rest in Peace to the legendary Hank Aaron. pic.twitter.com/QSrYtW6HEa
Sad to hear about Hank Aaron’s passing. He was the gold standard for professionalism and humility. He did so much for the progression of our city and the country. RIP
— Matt Ryan (@M_Ryan02) January 22, 2021
Hank Aaron was a champion of baseball and civil rights.
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) January 22, 2021
He held the home run record for 30+ years. He was also a friend, and one of the nicest people I’ve ever met.
He faced unspeakable racism, and advocated for equality until the end of his life.
I will miss him terribly.
Rest in heaven Hank Aaron!! #Hero #Icon
— Peerless Price (@PeerlessTheVol) January 22, 2021
Ozzie Newsome on the passing of Hank Aaron: pic.twitter.com/vSLVAJntBT
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) January 22, 2021
The history maker was also honored by numerous organizations, from the the King Center to the History channel.
In a joint statement on Aaron’s death, Katie Kirkpatrick, president and CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber, and Dan Corso, president of the Atlanta Sports Council, said: “The Metro Atlanta Chamber and the Atlanta Sports Council are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of sports legend and beloved community leader Henry ‘Hank’ Aaron. Aaron embodied the spirit of courage and perseverance that define metro Atlanta. He touched and inspired so many lives far beyond the sports world, and he will continue to do so for generations to come. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Aaron family and join the rest of the world in mourning the loss of such an incredible man. He will be missed.”
The Executive Committee and the entire Branch are sadden to hear of the passing of a legend and Civil Rights Hero #HankAaron. #RIP pic.twitter.com/lORCkPzRF8
— NAACP ATLANTA (@NaacpAtlanta) January 22, 2021
You were more than an athlete.
— The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center (@TheKingCenter) January 22, 2021
Your leadership transcended sports.
And we are grateful for your courage and commitment to the freedom struggle.
Rest in power, #HankAaron.
We are praying for the Aaron family. pic.twitter.com/cTjRBWMZZV
We are thankful for true American heroes like #HankAaron, whose accomplishments on the field and character and humanitarianism off the field, are a wonderful example to us all. @Braves pic.twitter.com/UHIskhQ5Qh
— Cobb County Schools (@CobbSchools) January 22, 2021
The Hall of Fame remembers Hank Aaron. https://t.co/8fe3zXVsJE pic.twitter.com/tJSdp6SAnP
— National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum ⚾ (@baseballhall) January 22, 2021
More than 755.
— Canadian Forces in 🇺🇸 (@CAFinUS) January 22, 2021
More than the home runs.
More than a Hall of Famer.
Thank you, Hank Aaron.
pic.twitter.com/qLOOwsB1k1
Hank Aaron, one of baseball’s greatest stars, has passed away at the age of 86. With 755 home runs, he was a legend and pioneer of the game. Aaron was a 25-time All-Star, World Series champion, and is a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. pic.twitter.com/lqd7Sji6u2
— HISTORY (@HISTORY) January 22, 2021
Hank Aaron, a legendary Scout who will be missed. pic.twitter.com/t6m2OlnrYR
— Boy Scouts - BSA (@boyscouts) January 22, 2021
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Hank Aaron, whose accomplishments on the field were rivaled by his grace and leadership in equity, philanthropy and justice throughout his entire life. Our prayers are with his family and all who loved him. pic.twitter.com/igqvS8fiGs
— Habitat_org (@Habitat_org) January 22, 2021
With a heavy heart we bid farewell to the great Henry "Hank" Aaron. You will forever be our #Atlanta home run king.❤️ RIP pic.twitter.com/r399R5nnYl
— Atlanta Airport (@ATLairport) January 22, 2021
Celebrities also shared their memories, condolences and grief.
Hank Aaron, my childhood baseball hero, has gone home. Watching him break Babe Ruth’s record for most home runs on television was a monumental moment. As a young black child, he inspired me to push for excellence. Rest easy Sir. pic.twitter.com/frco9tTIdV
— Lenny Kravitz (@LennyKravitz) January 22, 2021
What a loss. 💔 Hank Aaron, baseball great who became a voice for civil rights, dies at 86 https://t.co/l4B2Dhnf3M
— Katie Couric (@katiecouric) January 22, 2021
Hank Aaron, who faced down racism as he eclipsed Babe Ruth as baseball’s home run king, hitting 755 homers and holding the most celebrated record in sports for more than 30 years, has died at 86.
— Mia Farrow (@MiaFarrow) January 22, 2021
The Atlanta Braves, his team for years, confirmed the death https://t.co/AG2NIRwm7M
Wow RIP Hank Aaron 😢
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) January 22, 2021
#HankAaron was as decent, kind and inspirational a human being as ever walked this earth. Leading up to breaking Ruth’s record, he received roughly 3,000 pieces of hate mail a day... 3,000! BECAUSE OF THE COLOR OF HIS SKIN!#America
— LeVar Burton (@levarburton) January 22, 2021
RIP Hank Aaron. God Bless your soul. You may be gone but you will never be forgotten. https://t.co/bNrEgNahNJ
— COMMON (@common) January 22, 2021
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