Funeral Arrangements Being Made for Marion Barry

Former D.C. Mayor Marion Barry will lie in repose next week in the John A. Wilson Building, so members of the public can pay their respects.

Specific details about Barry's funeral have not been announced. But preliminary plans are for his body to lie in repose Tuesday in the ceremonial lobby of the Wilson building, News4's Tom Sherwood reported.

Marion Barry, district councilman and former D.C. mayor, has died at 78. News4’s Megan McGrath has the latest, and Tom Sherwood reflects on Barry’s life and career.

Mayor Vincent C. Gray expressed deep sadness after learning about Barry's passing. Gray has spoken with Cora Masters Barry and shared his condolences and sympathies with her, and as well said his thoughts and prayers were with the council member's son, Christopher.

"Marion was not just a colleague but also was a friend with whom I shared many fond moments about governing the city," Gray said. "He loved the District of Columbia and so many Washingtonians loved him."

[NATL-DC]Photos: Marion Barry Through the Years

Mayor Gray said that he would work with Council member Barry's family and the District Council to plan official ceremonies worthy of a true statesman of the District of Columbia, most likely at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Barry deserves a multi-day sendoff as large as his life, Gray said.

A book of condolences for Barry will be available in the Wilson building lobby Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Barry,  the Ward 8 council member and four-time D.C. mayor, died early Sunday morning at age 78.

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