Longtime House Dem Passes Away at 94

Rep. Bill Clay Sr. (D-MO), the first black member of Congress from the state, passed away on Thursday at the age of 94.

He served in the U.S. House of Representatives for 32 years, representing Missouri’s 1st Congressional District from 1969 until 2001.

Clay was a prominent civil rights and labor advocate. During his long tenure, he played a central role in shaping post-Civil Rights Act St. Louis.

He worked closely with corporate executives and labor unions to redevelop the city after many white residents left the urban core.

Clay’s influence extended beyond city planning. He wielded political power through strategic endorsements and demanded strong loyalty from those he supported. His backing was seen as pivotal for aspiring Democrats in Missouri politics.

His son, former Congressman Lacy Clay, described him as a staunch defender of black Americans. “The Black community, almost overwhelmingly, looked at him as a fighter for them,” he said.

Clay entered public service early, winning election to the St. Louis Board of Aldermen in 1959 at just 28 years old. His election came during a pivotal time, as black residents began seeking greater political influence following the 1965 Civil Rights Act.

During the era of segregation, Clay participated in local sit-ins targeting discriminatory practices at businesses including White Castle and Howard Johnson, according to the Conservative Brief.

These protests challenged customs that kept black and white customers separate.

In a 1998 interview, Clay recalled that St. Louis, though outside the Deep South, had enforced segregation through tradition rather than legal statute. “We had rigid segregation — not by law, but by custom,” he said.

On Friday, local leaders paid tribute to Clay’s legacy. St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer highlighted his historic achievements, noting his battles for the poor and disenfranchised. She credited him for championing the Family and Medical Leave Act and advocating for higher wages.

Mayor Spencer also praised Clay’s role in founding the Congressional Black Caucus in 1971. The caucus has since grown significantly, now including a record 62 members in the current Congress.

Congressman Wesley Bell (D-MO) also honored Clay, calling him a mentor and friend. “He was a giant — not just for St. Louis, not just for Missouri, but for the entirety of our country,” Bell said.

Bell emphasized that Clay’s example continues to guide him in his current role. “I carry his example with me every time I walk onto the House Floor,” he said.

In a statement, the Congressional Black Caucus described Clay’s life as one marked by “dignity, courage, and transformative impact.” They credited him with laying the groundwork for future black leaders in government.

Mayor Spencer issued a formal condolence to Clay’s family, especially his son Lacy, whom she recognized as a key leader in St. Louis. She referred to Clay Sr. as “one of St. Louis’ proud native sons.”

Michael P. McMillan, CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, also paid tribute. He called Clay a civil rights pioneer who reshaped lives both locally and nationally.

McMillan added that Clay had a personal influence on him and worked closely with the Urban League on numerous community projects. He urged that Clay’s legacy be preserved and remembered.

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