Elected leaders and community members across Rochester are mourning the loss of philanthropist Margaret “Midge” Thomas.
Mayor Malik Evans says the 99-year-old and her husband Freddie played a major role advocating for equity and civil rights.
“It is with great sadness that I express these words of sympathy and admiration on the passing of Rochester visionary Margaret “Midge” Thomas.
Midge lived a life full of purpose, deep devotion, and determination. She and her beloved late husband, Dr. Freddie Thomas, played a powerful role in Rochester’s Civil Rights history, advocating for equity, inclusion, and justice. After his passing, she carried forward their shared commitment to service, spending more than five decades touching and transforming the lives of countless Rochesterians.
I am beyond words to fully express the immeasurable loss of Midge Thomas in our midst. She has made a profound impact on our lives and in our community, for which we will forever be grateful.”
Freddie died in 1974, and Midge carried on his legacy of service for more than five decades, establishing the Freddie Thomas Learning Center, Dr. Freddie Thomas Middle School and the Freddie Thomas Foundation.
Thomas was recognized as a New York State Senate Women of Distinction honoree and received the key to the city in 2023.