Lillie Lester, a trailblazing figure who left an indelible mark on Michigan's political landscape, passed away on Friday at the age of 102. She was not just the first woman to serve as a legislative sergeant-at-arms in the state, but also the first Black woman to hold the position—a monumental achievement that would inspire countless others. Her work at the state Capitol in the 1960s and '70s, during a period of deep racial tension and crucial civil rights advancements, has cemented her legacy as a pioneer. Those close to her remember her as someone who broke barriers with grace, determination, and a steadfast commitment to helping others.
Born on May 5, 1922, in Haddock, Georgia—a rural area rooted in the legacy of a former plantation—Lester's early life was shaped by the harsh realities of racial segregation. She grew up in nearby Macon, Georgia, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges Black Americans faced, including the discriminatory exclusion from government jobs. This pivotal moment left a lasting impression on her young mind and fueled her desire to fight for change. Even as a teenager working in a canning factory and later during World War II as a "Rosie the Riveter" in a munitions factory, her spirit of perseverance and resilience shone through.
Lester's move to Michigan in 1948 was a turning point. Visiting family, she quickly fell in love with the state and decided to make it her home. It wasn't long before she got involved in politics, forming relationships with influential figures like the late Rep. Daisy Elliott. Their close connection and daily car rides from Detroit to Lansing eventually led to Lester being appointed as an assistant sergeant-at-arms for the Michigan House of Representatives. Lester's dedication to the role was remarkable. In an era before cell phones and the internet, she served as a critical link between lawmakers and the public, ensuring the smooth operation of legislative sessions and even giving tours of the Capitol.
Her journey was one of constant service—not just to the Capitol, but to her family, her community, and anyone who needed her help. Lester's daughter, Mary Lewis, fondly remembered her mother’s unwavering kindness and commitment to others, even during her final days. "She believed in helping people," Lewis shared. "Her motto was: 'I can help somebody.' And she lived by that." Lester's life was characterized by her belief in giving back, and it was this mindset that drove her throughout her remarkable career.
In 2019, decades after her retirement, Lester returned to the Capitol. At nearly 100 years old, she was greeted with a standing ovation by the state House chamber. State Rep. Sherry Gay-Dagnogo, who introduced her to the chamber, spoke of Lester's dedication and trailblazing spirit, saying, "Her commitment to Michigan and her trailblazing mindset serves as an excellent call for perseverance in the face of adversity." It was clear that even in her later years, Lester's contributions to the state and the Civil Rights Movement were remembered and celebrated.
One of the many highlights of Lester’s career was her involvement in the civil rights organization, the Progressive Civic League. She worked closely with political leaders like the late U.S. Rep. John Conyers, and in a striking black-and-white photograph, she is seen shaking hands with Massachusetts Senator Edward Kennedy, a testament to her influence in political circles. Lester was also a founding member of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus, a group that sought to elevate Black voices in the political arena. In many ways, she was a mentor and a mother figure to Michigan's legislators, especially those of color, who often turned to her for guidance and support. Reflecting on her role, Lester once said, "I was an only child, but I was a mother to many."
Capitol Historian Valerie Marvin has spoken of Lester’s significant role in Michigan’s legislative history. Not only was she the first Black woman to serve as a sergeant-at-arms, but she was also one of the first in the entire nation—a fact that Marvin believes is crucial to remember. "Lester’s story reminds us that gender and racial barriers can be broken," Marvin said, "and that her legacy continues to inspire others." Lester's job wasn’t easy, especially during a time when more and more people of color were being elected to office, but she approached it with a steadfast determination that earned her the respect and admiration of her peers.
Her position at the Capitol was about more than just keeping order during legislative sessions. As a sergeant-at-arms, she was a mother hen, a guide, and a protector. In 1975, a report from the Associated Press described her as a "combination guide and mother hen," someone who took her job seriously and ensured that everything ran smoothly. Governor William Milliken even signed a proclamation that year, honoring Lester’s service as one of "distinction and honor." He cited her active role in politics as a shining example of the strides women were making in difficult and competitive fields. Yet despite all the accolades, Lester never sought the spotlight. She was deeply religious and was known to pray for the legislators she worked with, always thinking of others before herself.
Sadly, in 1976, her time at the Capitol came to an end after she slipped on a patch of ice and broke her knee. Unable to stand for long periods, she retired just as the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act—named in part after her close friend Daisy Elliott—was passed. This landmark legislation outlawed discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations in Michigan. Though her official role may have ended, Lester never stopped working for the betterment of her community.
Even in retirement, she remained a vital part of the political community in Detroit and continued her involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. As Marvin noted in a video produced by the Michigan State Capitol Commission, Lester always spoke of her work as a continuation of the efforts of those who had come before her. "She saw her role as part of a larger movement," Marvin said, "one that shaped Detroit and the Black community across America."
Lester’s legacy is one of perseverance, service, and an unshakable belief in the power of helping others. As her daughter Mary Lewis so beautifully put it, "She lived a life of giving." Lester is survived by her two daughters, four grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Andrews Funeral Home in Detroit, with her final resting place set to be at Elmwood Cemetery.
Lillie Lester’s life was a testament to the power of determination, faith, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Her contributions to Michigan’s political history and the Civil Rights Movement will not be forgotten. She paved the way for future generations, showing that it’s possible to break barriers, uplift others, and make a lasting difference.
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