Senate adopts resolutions honoring volunteers and library; adjourns in memory of Lorraine Patricia Steele

The Massachusetts Senate adopted several resolutions and adjourned in memory of a community activist.

By voice vote the Senate adopted resolutions presented by Mr. Croghan honoring Newell Tillman for 20 years of volunteer service to the town of Westford and by Mr. Tarr congratulating the Flint Memorial Library on its 150th anniversary. The clerk reported adoption after the voice vote.

Later, Senator Collins of Suffolk moved that the Senate adjourn in memory of Lorraine Patricia Steele of Boston. In a floor statement, Collins said Steele was a “beloved community active advocate and neighborhood champion” who “passed away comfortably and peaceably at home on Saturday, 07/19/2025, at the age of 71, after an 18-month battle with cancer.” Collins identified several local nonprofit organizations with which Steele was involved, including the St. Potloff Neighborhood Association, the Southwest Corridor Park Conservancy, the Jimmy Fund, Pan-Mass Challenge, Bankathon, and Build of Greater Boston, and noted survivors including her husband and siblings. The Senate approved the motion by voice vote and observed a moment of silence.

The Senate then adjourned, with the chair noting the session would reconvene Monday next at 11 a.m.