Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
WILMINGTON, Del. — U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) released the following statement on the passing of Bishop Aretha E. Morton:
“Annie and I are truly saddened to learn of the passing of Bishop Aretha E. Morton. Bishop Morton was not only an inspiration to her friends, family, and congregation, but she was a valued and trusted community and civic leader in our city and state. Our prayers are with her family — most especially her children — and we hope that they find comfort in knowing that Bishop Morton’s life of service left a permanent positive mark on many, whether through her service, ministry, or wisdom.
“Bishop Morton was a trailblazer who persevered fearlessly in her pursuit of justice, setting forth for others a pathway toward opportunity, shattering barriers and overcoming inequities that discriminated against many throughout the community. Bishop Morton was Delaware’s first female pastor of a Baptist church, Wilmington’s first female African-American to be named Chaplain of the Wilmington Fire Department, a founding member of the Interdenominational Ministers Action Council, and a founding member of the Hope Commission. Her service spanned decades and touched many lives. It is often said that today’s community leaders ‘stand on the shoulders of giants,’ and sadly today our community mourns the loss of a giant who served as a cornerstone for many generations.”