BALTIMORE — Baltimore City's 42nd Mayor has passed away.
Known as "Young Tommy," Thomas D'Alesandro III died Sunday at the age of 90, at his North Baltimore home following complications from a stroke.
He served as Mayor for one term from 1967 to 1971.
D'Alesandro III was the oldest brother of United States House Speaker and Baltimore native, Nancy Pelosi, and the son of former Mayor and U.S. Congressman Thomas D'Alesandro Jr.
In a statement, Pelosi called her brother the best public servant she ever knew.
“Tommy was the finest public servant I have ever known. His life and leadership were a tribute to the Catholic values with which we were raised: faith, family, patriotism. He profoundly believed, as did our parents, that public service was a noble calling and that we all had a responsibility to help others. Tommy dedicated his life to our city. A champion of civil rights, he worked tirelessly for all who called Baltimore home. Tommy was a leader of dignity, compassion and extraordinary courage, whose presence radiated hope upon our city during times of struggle and conflict. All his life, Tommy worked on the side of the angels. Now, he is with them. With his commitment to his family and public service, his life has truly blessed America," said Pelosi.
Maryland Governor Larry Hogan tweeted out his condolences, commending D'Alesandro's leadership during divisive times, which included the 1968 Baltimore riots shortly after his inauguration.
My statement on the passing of Former Mayor Thomas D’Alesandro III: pic.twitter.com/aOeA5IAjVr
— Governor Larry Hogan (@GovLarryHogan) October 20, 2019
Current City Mayor Jack Young also released a statement highlighting D'Alesandro's work as mayor, which also included laying the ground work for the Inner Harbor.
“I am very saddened to learn of the passing of former Mayor Thomas J. D’Alesandro, III. He will always be remembered for his commitment to and love for Baltimore. He guided the city at a tumultuous time and made important strides while in office like creating summer recreation programs for youth, removing racial barriers in employment and education and laying the groundwork for what would become the world-famous Inner Harbor. My sincere condolences to the D’Alesandro family during this difficult time," Young said.
D'Alesandro is survived by his wife Margaret, and children, Thomas, Dominic, Nicholas, Patricia, and Gregory.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
