Former legislator and judge dies at 77

LANSING, Mich., June 24, 2025 — Michigan’s legal and political landscape are saddened by the loss of Judge Virgil C. Smith, who passed away on June 23, 2025, at the age of 77.

“Virgil Smith was a champion for justice, equality and community,” said state Rep. Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit), chair of the Detroit Caucus. “From his leadership in Lansing to his thoughtful decisions on the bench, his legacy will continue to inspire public servants across Michigan.”

A trailblazer in both the Michigan Legislature and judiciary, Smith’s career spanned over four decades of service to his city and state. Born in Detroit, Judge Smith graduated from Michigan State University and Wayne State University Law School. He served in the Michigan House from 1977 to 1988.

“As the first Black Senate Minority Floor Leader, he shattered ceilings. His dedication paved the way for many young leaders from our region. His absence will be deeply felt,” said state Rep. Helena Scott (D-Detroit), vice chair of the Detroit Caucus. 

Following his time in the House, Smith went on to serve in the Michigan Senate from 1988 to 2000 where he became the first African-American Senate Minority Floor Leader. Smith later joined the Wayne County Circuit Court from 2004 to 2018 as the first African-American chief circuit court judge in Michigan. 

“Judge Smith’s work in Wayne County reshaped how justice is administered. He lifted up families and mentored countless legal professionals, teaching by example what public service is. His legacy lives on in the people he helped guide and uplift,” said state Rep. Regina Weiss (D-Oak Park), secretary of the Detroit Caucus.  

Smith’s career was marked by an unbreakable commitment to justice, legislative innovation and judicial reform. His indelible influence was felt in courtrooms, legislative chambers and neighborhoods across Michigan.

“Virgil C. Smith stood unwavering for civil rights and justice. Whether in a courtroom or on the Senate Floor, he championed those without a voice. The legal community and Michigan as a whole are better because of his life’s work,” said state Rep. Tonya Myers Phillips (D-Detroit), treasurer of the Detroit Caucus.

“We’ve lost a tireless advocate for justice. His legacy reminds us that true leadership lives in acts of service and integrity. He broke down barriers with grace and lifted our community every step of the way,” said state Rep. Donavan McKinney (D-Detroit), member of the Detroit Caucus.

###