PHILADELPHIA – Mayor Kenney issued the following statement upon the passing of local businessman, civic leader, and philanthropist H.F. “Gerry” Lenfest.  

“Today we mourn the loss of a Philadelphia giant who left an indelible mark on the City and the entire Philadelphia region. Gerry Lenfest’s business acumen was exceeded only by his philanthropic impact. His generous contributions transformed the lives of countless individuals and institutions. His imprint will long remain on jewels like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Curtis Institute of Music, as well as newer institutions, such as the Museum of the American Revolution, the Lenfest Ocean Program, and too many youth-serving organizations to name. Gerry’s decision to return Philadelphia’s daily newspapers to local ownership brought stability to those publications at a time when journalism has never mattered more. Truly, Philadelphia was blessed to have Gerry Lenfest, and my thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”