Statement on the Passing of Dr. William Finlayson
From Common Council Members: Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Andrea M. Pratt, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderman Alex Brower, Alderman Lamont Westmoreland, Alderwoman Larresa Taylor, Alderwoman Sharlen P. Moore, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II
We are saddened by the passing of Dr. William Finlayson, a giant in the Milwaukee community whose legacy will be felt and celebrated for generations.
We offer our sincere condolences to his loved ones and friends.
Dr. Finlayson was a beloved Milwaukee obstetrician and gynecologist who served in the United States Army (World War II), was admitted as the first Black doctor at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Mount Sinai, opened Milwaukee’s first Black-owned bank – North Milwaukee State Bank, was an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc., and also served on numerous boards and commissions in the name of improving the community.
We honor and remember Dr. Finlayson for the tremendous impact he made on so many people throughout Milwaukee for decades, and the Common Council renamed a portion of 5th Street in his honor in Milwaukee’s Bronzeville area in 2022. The Council’s action exemplifies the depth of our respect and admiration for Dr. Finlayson, and the recognition of his deep and meaningful impact in the community.
He helped deliver more than 10,000 babies during his time in practice, and he literally helped ensure the healthy growth of Milwaukee through many decades. Dr. Finlayson had numerous positive accomplishments, and in so many ways, his impact in the city was wide-reaching.
Your legacy lives on and will never be forgotten, good Doctor. May you rest in peace.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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