PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – Alton Wiley, Rhode Island’s first Black judge, passed away on Wednesday.
Wiley, 91, made history as the first Black judge to sit on the state’s District and Superior Courts.
Gov. Gina Raimondo offered her condolences in a tweet reading, “I was saddened to hear of Judge Wiley’s passing. A veteran, a brilliant legal mind, and RI’s first Black judge, he helped pave the way for a new generation of talented, diverse lawyers to serve on our courts. I’m keeping his family in my thoughts during this difficult time.”
Senator Jack Reed wrote in a statement, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Judge Wiley and my heart goes out to his family and loved ones. On the track, in the Army, and on the bench, Alton Wiley’s exemplary talent, skill, and leadership stood out. He was a star.”