IL SR1598

Illinois Senate mourns the death of Reverend Dr. Leon Dorsey Finney Jr., who passed away on September 4, 2020.

Dr. Finney was born July 7, 1938 in Louise, Mississippi, graduated from Hyde Park Academy High School in 1957, served in the U.S. Marine Corps, and earned advanced degrees in economics, urban community development, theological studies, and public administration.

Served as executive director and president of the Woodlawn Organization, vice chairman of the Chicago Public Housing Authority, board member of Chicago State University and the YMCA, and founded Christ Apostolic Church later serving as senior pastor of Metropolitan Apostolic Community Church.

Taught at multiple universities including University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and McCormick Theological Seminary, where he created the African American Leadership program; authored publications on economic and social development.

Senate extends condolences to his surviving family including daughter Kristin Finney-Cooke, three grandchildren, and five siblings, and will present a suitable copy of this resolution to his family.