Copyright timesnownews
Former Newton Mayor Setti Warren died unexpectedly at his home on Sunday at the age of 55. He also served as the Director of the Institute of Politics. He is survived by his wife, Tassy, and their children, Abigail and John. What Newton Mayor Said In a heartfelt statement, current Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller paid tribute to Warren’s legacy, describing him as a passionate public servant who deeply loved his hometown. “Setti loved Newton, the community where he grew up, and combined that love with a passion for public service and an unshakeable belief that government can be a force for good,” she said. Warren served as Mayor of Newton for eight years, from 2010 to 2018, becoming the first African American to be popularly elected mayor in Massachusetts. During his time in office, he focused on improving education, strengthening city finances, expanding innovation, and addressing environmental issues. He invested heavily in Newton Public Schools, reduced the city’s carbon footprint, and introduced a long-term transportation plan that continues to guide the city’s development. Mayor Fuller praised Warren’s leadership and charisma, recalling how his positive energy inspired others. “His smile lit up a room. He drew people to him and turned their energy into positive action,” she said. She also said that his leadership qualities were evident from a young age as Warren had served as class president at Newton North High School for four years and later as student president at Boston College. Setti Warren's Early Life Before entering local politics, Warren worked at the federal level under President Bill Clinton and Senator John Kerry, and also served with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the US Naval Reserve, including a tour in Iraq. These experiences, Fuller said, shaped his strong belief in public service and government’s potential to bring positive change. Warren’s Catholic faith and commitment to helping others guided both his professional and personal life. He was known not only as a respected leader but also as a devoted family man. He often spoke lovingly of his wife, Tassy, and their children, Abigail and John. His mayoral office was filled with their drawings and photographs, which he said reminded him of what truly mattered. “On behalf of the residents of Newton, I extend our sympathy to his wife Tassy, his children Abigail and John, his extended family and many friends,” Mayor Fuller said. “Our hearts are with them during this difficult time.” Funeral arrangements and details about a memorial service are expected to be announced soon. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News and around the World.
