Local Officials React to Death of Former Boston Mayor Tom Menino

Medford Mayor Michael McGlynn

Courtesy photo

“Sheila and I would like to express our deepest sympathies to Angela and the Menino Family on the passing of our beloved Mayor Tom Menino.

Tom Menino was a man of integrity, commitment, strength and compassion, who became Boston’s longest serving Mayor.

We shall never forget this pillar of strength who led our Nation in the healing and rebuilding process known as ‘Boston Strong’ after the Marathon Bombings.

Mayor Menino spoke passionately on behalf of all Massachusetts residents on Beacon Hill and Capitol Hill as we lobbied together for 20 years, to increase local aid and public education funding. On the national stage, Tom Menino, was a catalyst for the Mayor’s Against Illegal Guns Initiative while serving as the President of the United States Conference of Mayors.

Tom Menino was a humble man of the people who often said, that he didn’t do anything special, he just did his job which was to help the people of the City of Boston. He never forgot where he came from or what his ministry in life was…to help to improve the quality of life for all. We will always miss his insight and frankness on all of the issues.

So long Tom. Thanks for the memories, guidance and direction. Sheila and I will keep Angela and your family in our prayers.”

Current Attorney General, Democratic candidate for governor, and Medford resident Martha Coakley:

“Today, Boston has lost the greatest mayor in its history. He was a friend and mentor, and a shining example to me and countless others of what it means to love and serve your community.

What made Tom Menino so remarkable was his connection to the people he represented – he understood their lives, their hopes, and their dreams. And he fought for them every day. He never forgot where he came from and stayed true to who he was to the very end.

We will miss him dearly, and we are all better for having known him and Boston is better for his leadership. My prayers go to his family – including his loving children Tom and Susan, his wonderful grandchildren, and to the love of his life, Angela. My condolences also go to his large extended family, his many friends, and his former staff.”

Senator Edward Markey

“In every neighborhood across this city, Boston will mourn today after losing this great mayor, but we will fill that void with the love and respect we have for the life and the legacy of Tom Menino. Boston loves Tom Menino because Tom Menino loved Boston with all of his heart.

Tom Menino wasn’t satisfied with leading the best city in America, he wanted Boston to be the best city in the world. Tom Menino was an urban mechanic without equal, attuned to every detail in every neighborhood and forged a more inclusive Boston. Yet his vision for Boston was global, and he pushed the city into a new era of innovation. He helped this shining city on a hill illuminate its light across the world, building a beacon of innovation and entrepreneurship. He laid the foundation for Boston’s economic leadership in the 21st century, including spearheading the Boston Innovation District and developing the Seaport area.

The Innovation District is supporting the companies and industries that are creating jobs today. And he has ensured that Boston will continue to be a national leader in biotechnology, clean energy, and health care for generations to come.

Boston will move into the future a stronger, brighter, safer, and healthier city because of Tom Menino.

My thoughts go out to Angela, the entire Menino family, and everyone ever touched by the great Tom Menino, a mayor and a man for the ages.”

– InsideMedford.com