Mayor Cantrell Issues Statement on Passing of Sybil Haydel Morial

"The City of New Orleans and her residents are in mourning as we bid farewell to Sybil Haydel Morial. Mrs. Morial was a New Orleans treasure and trailblazer as the first African American First Lady of the City of New Orleans," said Mayor LaToya Cantrell.

"The historic service of Mrs. Morial and her late husband Ernest "Dutch" Morial, the first African American Mayor of New Orleans, will always be remembered as a shining legacy of love and inspiring leadership for the City of New Orleans.

The beloved former First Lady and wonderful mother of former Mayor Marc Morial, passed away at the age of 91.

Mrs. Morial was a champion for civil rights, and a woman who fought tirelessly to break barriers and pave the way for future generations. She was a respected educator and author who spent over 28 years as an Associate Dean and Administrator at Xavier University, where she made a lasting impact on countless students.

The City of New Orleans sends its heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Morial family, friends and all those who loved her. We will forever be grateful for all the lives she blessed throughout her life. May she now rest in God's perfect peace."

The City of New Orleans flag will fly at half-staff in honor of Mrs. Morial.