Gerald Freeny, who made history as the first Black president of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association, has passed away, a spokesperson for the organization said Friday. He was 66.
Freeny joined the association — which produces the annual Rose Parade on New Year’s Day — in 1988 and served for more than 30 years before becoming president in 2019. The theme of 2019’s parade was “The Melody of Life,” celebrating how music unites people through family, friendship, love and shared memories.
“Anyone who knew Gerald knows that being President was only one part of his life,” 2027 Tournament of Roses president Terry Madigan wrote in an email to members on Friday. “He was kind, gracious, and always tried to bring people together. He showed this same spirit while serving many organizations in Pasadena and nearby communities.”
According to Madigan, Freeny is survived by his wife and daughter.
The cause of death was not announced.