BALTIMORE — It was a wish he shared before his passing to lie in repose on the campus of Morgan State so people can pay their final respects.
Maryland Rep. Elijah E. Cummings died early Thursday last week at Gilchrist Hospice Care, a Johns Hopkins Hospital affiliate, due to complications from longstanding health challenges. He was 68.
RELATED: US Rep. Elijah Cummings dies at 68
Morgan was incredibly important to Congressman Cummings. He served on the Board of Regents for 19 years, received an honorary doctor of laws and just last May gave the commencement address.
During his speech, he said one of the proudest things he does is sit on the board. The school is reciprocating their love and appreciation for all he contributed to this university and our country.
The casket carrying Congressman Cummings arrived early this morning, his wife Dr. Maya Rockeymoore immediately followed.
There's been a steady stream of people coming to the Murphy Fine Arts Center since 10 a.m.
A number of elected officials have paid their respects and are expected to attend the service this evening, including former Senator Barbara Mikulski, Senate President Mike Millers, Mayor Jack Young among many others.
Former Senator Barbara Mikulski stressed how this is a major loss for the country, congress and our community. Senator Ben Cardin said they lost a champion of social justice.
"We are better than this, he devoted his entire life to making America better the advanced measures on education, affordable housing, addiction, infrastructure, gun safety, police practices on and on of his accomplishments," Cardin said.
Some didn't have the words like former Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings Blake.
Others shared memories, Baltimore City Council President Brandon Scott said every time he spoke with Cummings, he learned something. Scott shared their last conversation.
"You can disagree, but do that with dignity and respect," Scott said. " One day that title will go away, but that dignity and respect you have for others."
Baltimore Mayor Jack Young asked those in attendance to do something in his honor.
"We all can learn a lot, we should all pledge to extend a hand and say, 'how can I help you?'," Young said.
Every speaker gave their condolences to the Cummings family.
The full service can be watched below:
