Assembly Resolution No. 901

BY: M. of A. McDonald

MOURNING the death of Father James Lefebvre,
spiritual leader, distinguished citizen and pillar
of his community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Father James Lefebvre of Albany, New York, died on Tuesday,
March 6, 2018, at the age of 83; and

WHEREAS, Father Lefebvre served the City of Albany, and the
residents of Albany Housing Authority as a Commissioner for more than 40
years; and

WHEREAS, A truly constant and steady force in this capacity, Father
James Lefebvre spoke quietly yet insightfully to bring order to the
discussion of even the most complex and controversial issues, always
keeping the best interests of the residents at heart; and

WHEREAS, Father James Lefebvre was a devoted servant of his beloved
community for decades; his profound impact on Albany Housing Authority
and the community-at-large is immeasurable; and

WHEREAS, Ordained to the Roman Catholic priesthood in 1959, Father
James Lefebvre was appointed Albany Police Chaplain in 1965, while
residing at St. Joseph's Parish in Albany; he was made honorary
Assistant Police Chief in 2014; and

WHEREAS, In addition, this esteemed man served for many years as
priest at Historic St. Mary's Church on Capitol Hill in Albany, New
York, and was appointed to the Albany County Ethics Commission in 2016;
and

WHEREAS, A friend, mentor, storyteller, and a part of the fabric
which makes Albany a special place to live and work, Father James
Lefebvre's impression will be felt for many years to come by those who
were fortunate enough to come in contact with him; and

WHEREAS, Father James Lefebvre will be fondly remembered for his
commitment to serving the residents of this city; his humor, quick wit
and smile will be deeply missed; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Father James Lefebvre leaves behind a legacy which will long
endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
he served and befriended; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Father James Lefebvre, spiritual leader,
distinguished citizen and pillar of his community; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Father James Lefebvre.