Marion Barry’s body to lie in state at Wilson Building for public viewing; other arrangements

Mayor Vincent C. Gray, DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, Cora Masters Barry and the family of Marion S. Barry, Jr. today released the details of memorial event for the late Ward 8 Councilmember and former Mayor of the District of Columbia.

“From his days as a leader on the front lines of the civil rights movement to his work to fight poverty and advance Home Rule for the District, Marion Barry leaves behind an incredible legacy,” said Mayor Gray. “It is fitting that we come together as a city to celebrate this legacy and allow the entire District to say goodbye to the Mayor for Life.”

A moving element of the funeral arrangements was the decision to have Mayor Barry’s body lie in state for 24 hours of public viewing at the John A. Wilson Building, the heart of District government, where District residents and others can pay tribute to the former mayor and councilmember.

The schedule of memorial events is as follows:

Thursday, December 4 to Friday, December 5

9AM: Brief ceremony to receive Mayor Barry’s casket at the Wilson Building where his remains will lie in repose for 24 hours.

John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Friday, December 5

10AM: Mayor Barry’s body to travel one of the churches he regularly attended

3PM to 6PM: Musical and Video Tribute celebrating his 40 Years of Public Service

6PM to 9PM: Community Service

Temple of Praise, 700 Southern Avenue SE

Saturday, December 6

8AM–3PM: Thousands attend a Celebration of Mayor Barry’s life and legacy.

Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Halls C & D, 801 Mount Vernon Place NW

8AM to 11AM: Viewing

11AM– 3PM: Service

Private Burial immediately following