'A Lasting Legacy': Pioneering Contra Costa County Board Member Dead At 69

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — Former Contra Costa County supervisor Federal Glover has died, county authorities announced Sunday. He was 69.

Glover, the first African American and the first person of color to be elected to and serve on the board of supervisors, represented District 5 for six terms from 2000 to 2024.

“Federal’s leadership and tireless commitment to improving the lives of residents left a lasting legacy that continues to benefit our County today,” the board said Sunday in a prepared statement. “Federal will be remembered not only for his contributions to public service, but also for his compassion and integrity.”

Glover grew up in Pittsburg as one of 12 children and was the first of his siblings to attend college, studying business administration at San Francisco State University.

Prior to joining the county board, he was a Pittsburg city council member and the city’s mayor. On the board of supervisors, he was repeatedly elected board chairman and chaired numerous committees. He also convened the area’s first youth summit and gang task force.

In 2015, he underwent a heart and kidney transplant.

He died at the University of California San Francisco Medical Center.

“His legacy is one of unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and service,” his wife, Janis Glover, said in a prepared statement. “He believed deeply in the power of community, and worked tirelessly to uplift and unite the people he was honored to represent.”

In addition to his wife, he is survived by their two children as well as grandchildren and other extended family.