Senate honors late Sen. Vincent D. Fort with resolution, family accepts tribute

ATLANTA — The Georgia Senate on Feb. 19 adopted a resolution honoring the life and public service of the late state Senator Vincent D. Fort and presented the resolution to his family on the floor.

Senate Resolution 100, sponsored by Senator Orrick (36th) and others, memorialized Fort's career, noting his years in the Senate (1996'2017), roles including minority whip (2011'2017), and his advocacy on consumer protection, landfills, and economic and racial equality. The Senate adopted the resolution by unanimous consent.

Members offered personal remarks on the Senate floor about Fort's combination of fierce advocacy and personal warmth. Lieutenant Governor Jones recalled Fort's mentorship to younger legislators; other senators highlighted Fort's work on predatory lending and consumer-protection legislation and his grassroots focus. Zan Ford, the senator's son, accepted the resolution and spoke briefly about his father's commitment and tenacity: "His energy to throw one more punch, to push back and hold the line when nobody else is willing," Zan Ford said, describing what he learned from his father.

The resolution notes Fort's earlier career as a historian and educator at Morehouse College and Morris Brown College and his national recognition for consumer-protection work. The family and colleagues gathered on the chamber floor as senators remembered Fort's service and presented the formal resolution.

Ending: The measure was adopted by the Senate and copies were presented to Fort's son Zan and family during a floor ceremony.