Former Boston Mayor Kevin White dies at 82

BOSTON -- Former Boston Mayor Kevin White died on Friday at 82-years-old.

Mayor White served Boston for sixteen years, overseeing sweeping changes in the city. During the mid 1970s, he faced racial tension and violence, as the city struggled to desegregate the public schools.

A federal corruption probe prevented White from running for a record-setting fifth term as mayor, though he was never charged.

After he retired, he taught at Boston University until he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2003.

Current Boston Mayor Thomas Menino released a statement on Friday saying:

"My thoughts and prayers are with the White family tonight. Mayor Kevin White was a great friend and a great leader. He will be sorely missed."

George Regan, a spokesman for the White family, released a statement on Friday saying:

“The White family confirmed this evening that Mayor Kevin Hagan White died peacefully at approximately 7 p.m. at his Beacon Hill home. He was surrounded by his loving wife of 55 years Katherine, and his family. Funeral arrangements will be announced tomorrow. This is obviously a very sad day. “

Mayor White leaves behind his wife, brother, four children, and seven grandchildren.

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