Ossie Davis was perhaps New Rochelle’s most renowned and celebrated resident. As an exceptionally talented actor and as a leader in so many struggles for social justice, Mr. Davis commanded respect on the international stage. His death earlier this year was a cause for great sadness among his neighbors here in New Rochelle and among his countless admirers throughout the world.
In recent months, a committee led by Council Member Jim Stowe worked to evaluate different suggestions for honoring Mr. Davis’s remarkable life and his connection to New Rochelle. This past Monday, the committee’s efforts culminated in a ceremony, attended by Ruby Dee and the Davis family, in which the theater at the New Rochelle Public Library and Library Green were both renamed in Ossie Davis’s honor. This is a fitting tribute to a wonderful man and neighbor.