'Trailblazing Public Servant': Alderwoman Hart-Burns Dies At 68

AURORA, IL — The Aurora community is mourning the loss of Ward 7 Alderwoman Scheketa Hart-Burns. She died Monday at age 68.

When Hart-Burns was elected to represent Ward 7 in 1991, she made history by becoming the first Black person to hold a seat on the Aurora City Council. She went on to serve for more than 30 years.

Cited as a "trailblazing public servant," Hart-Burns will be remembered as a "fierce advocate for youth, senior citizens, and the underserved," city officials said.

During her time in office, Hart-Burns launched more than two dozen organizations and hosted her signature events, including the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Back to School Bash that provides school supplies, clothes, haircuts and mentors to more than 1,000 youth each year.

"She wasn't just a public servant," Muhammad said in a news release. "She quickly became a friend, mentor, sister, or mother to everyone she interacted with."

Her death also marked the first time a sitting member of the Aurora City Council died while in office, according to Clayton Muhammad, the city's chief communications officer.

Several arrangements have been made to honor the life of the longtime public servant.

• June 30: The City of Aurora will host a special procession where Hart Burns' casket will travel past City Hall one final time. The public is invited to line up along Downer Place between Stolp Avenue and Broadway for the event that will begin at 2 p.m.
• A wake will be held following the procession. It will take place from 4-7 p.m. June 30 at Mount Olive Church, 1039 Bonner Ave.
• The Homegoing Celebration will begin at 11 a.m. July 1 at the Cathedral of Grace St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2950 Bilter Road. A community repast will follow.
• Flowers can be sent to James Funeral Home, 204 Hill Ave.