Metro Atlanta
Metro Atlanta

Vincent Fort to lie in state at Atlanta City Hall

The progressive state lawmaker died at 68 years old from complications from cancer.
Atlanta mayoral candidate Vincent Fort gestures to supporters during a campaign rally at Saint Phillip AME Church, Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017. BRANDEN CAMP / SPECIAL
Atlanta mayoral candidate Vincent Fort gestures to supporters during a campaign rally at Saint Phillip AME Church, Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017. BRANDEN CAMP / SPECIAL
By
Dec 31, 2024

Former state senator Vincent Fort will lie in state at Atlanta City Hall on Friday, after dying from complications from cancer in December at 68 years old.

A longtime champion for progressive policies, fellow politicians hailed Fort as an unwavering advocate for vulnerable Georgians who was known nationally for his fight against predatory lending laws. He was first elected to represent Georgia’s 39th District in 1996 and served until 2017.

Fort will lie in state inside the Sam A. Massell Council Chamber on Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. A family service and Fort’s Masonic last rites will take place from 6-8 p.m. Friday at the Historic West End Chapel of the Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home, 1003 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd. SW.

On Saturday, a celebration of life and memorial service for Fort will begin at 1 p.m. at the Lindsay Street Baptist Church, 550 Lindsay St. NW.

Fort will be buried following the service at South-View Cemetery, 1990 Jonesboro Road SE.

About the Author

Riley Bunch is a reporter on the local government team at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution covering Atlanta City Hall. She covers the mayor and Atlanta City Council while also keeping an eye on the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

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