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R. Pincham Obituary
His son, Robert Eugene Pincham Jr., said his father died Thursday after a long illness.
Pincham, who was also a former judge and made a run for mayor in 1991, was one of the most well-known attorneys in the city and a vocal critic of police and the courts.
His clients included one of two boys falsely accused in the 1998 bludgeoning death of an 11-year-old Ryan Harris. The case made headlines across the country because the boys were only 7 and 8 when police accused them of murdering the girl.
Charges against the boys were dropped after crime lab tests found semen in Ryan's clothing. A convicted sex offender eventually pleaded guilty, and the families of the boys reached settlements with the city, one for $6.2 million and the other for $2 million.
Pincham also represented Anthony Porter, a former death row inmate who spent more than 16 years in prison for a double murder he didn't commit.
"He stood up for the little man, he refused to quit, he challenged the system to make it better for all people," his son said.
In addition to his Pincham spent more than a decade on the bench, as a Cook County Criminal Courts judge and as a state appellate court judge.
He unsuccessfully challenged Mayor Richard M. Daley when Daley - who is still the city's mayor - sought his first full term in 1991. Daley had won a special election after Harold Washington, a friend of Pincham's and the city's only black mayor, died in 1987.
Born in Chicago, Pincham was raised in Alabama by his mother, who moved there after a divorce. He eventually graduated from Northwestern University's law school.
"He endured segregation, racism, extreme poverty," said the younger Pincham.
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
90 Entries
Timothy Lusk, Sr.
November 15, 2011
I would like to relate a story to you about my experience with The Honorable Judge Pincham. Back in 1998, my wife and I were new parents. During the Christmas season, we thought it would be fun to take our new 6-month old child, Timothy Matthew Lusk, Jr., to Downtown Chicago so he could see all the pretty lights on Michigan Avenue. (He pretty much slept the whole time, even through the din of my complaining wife.) It was a "Family Tradition" of ours. Eating at The Italian Village was also a wonderful tradition of ours (Try the "Cioppino"...delicious!) so we decided to have some dinner before making the long ride back to Merillville. I resembled a camel that day, loaded down with bags and packs and diaper bags brimming with formula and diapers, wet-wipes, etc. We were tired. We arrived at The Italian Village, where I proceeded to lug my then-sleeping 35-pound child up the long, long staircase that leads to the 3rd Floor of the restaurant. We reached the top of the landing and it was packed "to da gills." Unbelievable. At this point, my lovely wife,(now my ex-wife), was so hungry and so tired that she had turned completely pale. I looked around and my heart sank, because I knew that a non-stop litany of complaining was sure to follow. Taking decisive action, I beckoned the maitre-d over to where we were sitting and "suggested" that he might make a special effort to find us a table A.S.A.P. He assured us, with a twinkle in his eye, that he would "See what he could do." Great. I reassured my wife, now teetering on the brink of post-partum exhaustion, that we would be eating soon. I turned to my left and noticed that R. Eugene Pincham was sitting there, patiently and quietly, waiting for his table. He looked tired. I am sure that it had been a long day for him, too...dealing with the hacks and quacks and all that. I walked over to him, introduced myself, and basically asked him if he would give up his place in line for me and my family. With a sweeping gesture, I pointed out that my "princess" was having a near-death experience waiting for a table, and that I was concerned for her health. "Judge" looked at me, then at my wife, then at my sleeping cherubic boy, and he said...."Yes. Go ahead. I remember what it was like to have a new child." I nearly fell over, but I pumped his hand vigorously in thanks, and I made a deal with him. I directed the bartender to give him a seat at the bar (more comfortable), to bring him a glass of wine or a cocktail, and a nice appetizer of fried Calamari while the Judge waited for his table. I may have bought his entree for him, too. It doesn't matter. The fact of the matter is, Judge Pincham "did me a good turn" without asking for anything. He gave up his seat for me and my family, because he was a stand-up guy. Never let it be said that Judge Pincham operated "Squid Pro Quo." We should take time to remember him not only as a Civil Rights hero, but as a compassionate, loving individual who helped me immensely that day. I have tried to follow his example whenever I can. I will never forget his kindness.
Laura Owens-Evins
December 6, 2009
Dear Pincham Family:
We wish to send our belated condolences for the passing of your great father, Justice Pincham. Your father was a very dear friend to my late father in law, Atty Charles B. Evins. Your parents attended my wedding to his son. Your mother Alzata was always kind very and welcoming to me when I first arrived to an often cold and windy city. Since my children (Brenton,Barton and Francyna) and I no longer reside in Chicago,(we left 16 yrs ago), we were unaware of your dad's transition. I will remember this colorful and powerful man of principles forever. I was a volunteer in his campaign for mayor. The world community was enhanced by his presence and the legacy left by him. May God keep your family and continue to bless the children of R. Eugene Pincham and your beautiful mom.
How you can show support
Laura Owens-Evins
December 6, 2009
We wish to send our belated condolences for the passing of your great father, Justice Pincham. Your father was a very dear friend to my late father in law, Atty Charles B. Evins. Your parents attended my wedding to his son. Your mother Alzata was always very,very kind to me. She was very welcoming to me when I first arrived to a often cold and windy city. Since my children (Brenton,Barton and Francyna) and I no longer reside in Chicago,(we left 16 yrs ago), we were unaware of your dad's transition. I will remember this colorful and powerful man of principles forever. I was a volunteer in his campaign for mayor. The world community was enhanced by his presence and the legacy left by him. May God keep your family and continue to bless the children of R. Eugene Pincham and your beautiful mom.
Rev. Harold E. Bailey/Probation Challenge, Inc.
Rev. Harold E. Bailey
April 24, 2009
Justice R. Eugene Pincham, was more than a man of great judicial authority, but also one who cared much to allow me to implement the Probation Challenge program which educated those sentenced to probation. He went out of his way to make life better for those who he thought deserved 'a second chance.' Pincham's spirit was and yet contnues to be a kind and gentle spirit.
Shelia Woodard RN, JD
January 2, 2009
Sandy, I am sorry for the passing of your father, I know how much you loved and cared for him. Your values as a physician were evident in your caring professionalism as a emergency room physician at Cooper Green Hospital in Birmingham.
Miracle
June 21, 2008
I sorry to hear about your lost and I would like to share with the family a comforting scripture at John11:25" Jesus said I am the resurrction and the life he that exercises faith in me, even though he dies will come to life.
Trinity High School Class of 1966 ~~ Johnny Horton, President
April 30, 2008
A Life Well-lived is a very precious gift of hope, strength and grace from someone who has made our world a brighter and better place to live. Filled with jokes and moments sweet and sad. with smiles and sometimes tears, with friendships formed and good times shared and laughter.
A Life Well-lived is a legacy of joy, pride and pleasure, a loving, lasting memory our grateful hearts will treasure.
Sympathizing with you in your great loss - remembering with you a very good life.
Ester Cosby
April 15, 2008
Dear Pincham family: On behalf of the Cosby family for the moral support Judge Pincham gave us and as a Trinity High School mate for the legacy he left the Trinity High School family, Athens, Ala, I wish you memories of love and friendship as treasures to carry with you always.
Mark Allen
April 13, 2008
Remembering R. Eugene Pincham -- "He Saved My Life"
"Justice R. Eugene Pincham was a personal friend to me and my family
for over 30 years. We are both members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.
His late wife Alzata Pincham and my mother were friends, both cancer
survivors and members of the same cancer survivors support group. I am
humbled by the fact that Judge Pincham was always there to provide
professional counsel to me throughout my 32 years in public service.
At one point in my life, I was a victim of the criminal justice system
and faced charges that carried a prison sentence of up to six years in
prison. As a lawyer, Pincham and Attorney Andre Grant came to
successfully represent me and that saved my life. I am so grateful for
what Judge Pincham meant to me and my family. As I look to my future in public service, I am driven by the spirit of the investment that R.
Eugene Pincham provided for me. He was not just an inspiration to me,
but to thousands of others in this city and across this country."
Dawn Barajas
April 12, 2008
The first time I met Mr. Pincham was 1984 when he was a judge and he married me and my husband in a civil ceremony. A few years ago I met him at O'Hare Airport and he was still the most polite and distinguished man and a sharp dresser. He took the time to talk to the TSA employees and say hello. My sympathies to his friends and family members.
Pastor Willie M. Byrd
April 12, 2008
Judge R. Eugene Pincham has given his life to a great cause, bestowing freely, and unselfishly his talent, influence and time for the betterment of the community and the world in which we live , he touched all phases of the religious faiths, socially and foremost the civic life of the people .So today Grace Missionarry Baptist church of Athens ,Alabama we pause to say Thank You, for a life well spent and say Thanks to God adn the family for letting us Know your father and Alabama's mentor ,The Honorable Robert E. Pincham
Pastor Willie M. Byrd
Grace Missionary Baptist Church , Athens, Alabama
Eileen Sterling
April 12, 2008
To Sandy & the rest of the family; my prayers are with you during this
difficult time. I always loved it when
your Dad came into The Woodshop. He was funny, profound and a very classy man. He will be missed.
Renee Abner
April 12, 2008
Judge Pincham was a great inspiration to me and my family, God sent him to us when my son was killed in 2006. Judge Pincham stated "he would die trying to seek justice for my son's death" and he kept true to his word as Judge Pincham had the keen insight to transfer our case to another attorney in October 2007.
Judge Pincham was a great, great man who I believe God placed here no only for his great works, but for all to see the characteristics of a real man.
I thank God for R. Eugene Pincham, a real man who will truly be missed by all.
Rev. Joan McPherson
April 11, 2008
Thank you, for truly great services rendered to Illinois and its citizens.
Your voice will be missed!
Julia Watkins , CanCerVive
April 9, 2008
I pray that God comforts you, the family of the Honourable Judge R. Eugene Pincham!
Courtney McCargo-Watts
April 9, 2008
Judge Pincham,
You will be missed! I'm glad to know that you are in the arms of God and will be appreciated and loved even better than when you were on Earth.
Peace and Blessings to all the Pincham family and extended family.
Love, Courtney McCargo Watts
Jackie Woods
April 9, 2008
Judge Pincham was an outstanding and helpful man. He helped me and my daughter during a very important time in our life. I pray that all the good he did while on earth, he will reap huge rewards in heaven. He will be missed.
To the Eugene Pincham family and host of friends, pillows of peace. Our prayers of love and support are with you.
FLORA COLLINS
April 9, 2008
WHEN I WAS A CHILD OUR CLASS WAS PRIVILEGED TO VISIT JUDGE PINCHAM. HOW MAJESTIC HE LOOKED, AND THE JUDGESHIP FIT HIM AS IF HE WAS TRULY FULFILLING HIS DESTINY. I HAVE ALWAYS REVERED AND RESPECTED HIM AS SUCH. FROM TIME TO TIME I WOULD SEE HIM AND ALWAYS ADDRESSED HIM AS JUDGE. MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE PINCHAM FAMILY, AS WELL AS MY PRAYERS. I THANK GOD FOR ALL THAT THIS MAN WAS AND STOOD FOR. HE WAS TRULY A RARE BREED.
Jimmy B
April 7, 2008
Gene, you were the best. Of all the cases that I appeared in front of you, I knew I would get a fair deal. Just like Las Vegas.
Cheryl Tate
April 7, 2008
May the Love of God comfort your family in these moments of sorrow. I just wanted to acknowledge that we have lost yet another true black man of honor. One who as paved the way for so many young black women and men. I pray we as a people respect his courage and follow his path.
ed and ellen gagnon
April 7, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.we met your beloved father when we lived in chicago.he was a nice person both professionally and with his family
ed and ellen gagnon
April 7, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Constance Y. Williams
April 7, 2008
I was blessed to know Judge Pincham, and I can honestly say that knowing him was a wonderful experience. He was a great man who clearly possessed great intelligence coupled with uncompromising integrity.
He was always gracious and ready to help others improve the quality of their lives. I never saw him mistreat anyone in all the years that I knew him.
He epitomized the definition of what it means to be a man, in every area of his life.
I loved him and I will cherish many wonderful memories of spending time with him and his family.
KEVIN EDMONDS
April 7, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
Debra Graham
April 7, 2008
I am a Ga. Resident who read the article of the passing of Mr. Pincham. As a teacher I am glad to see strong black males who stood the chance. I send my condolences. My husband passed in Dec. and he was the first black county commissioner in our small rural town. He stood strong and got respect. Debra Graham
Elder Naomi Fuentes
April 7, 2008
I'm praying for you and your family, please contact me, i'm wondering if we are related. my Great-grandfathers name was John Wesley Pinchem. email: [email protected]
beatrice pierce
April 7, 2008
i had the oppurtunity to meet mr. pincham at my daughter-in-law father's funeral phyllis pincham pierce , and he was an amazing man the family has my family and i sympathy,may god bless you
April 7, 2008
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Penny Brace
April 7, 2008
We have Loss one great man, who had a mesmerizing presence, a great speaker, and compassionate man, whom I met in Waukegan IL. He and his wife were the team to be associated with. Our loss and heavens gain. I'm glad to have met and spent time with him. He will be missed.
Jerome Taylor
April 6, 2008
As a member of bar, fellow brother in the bond, and mentor, you will surely be missed! Your tireless dedication to the craft and concern to serve the common man will be a hard act to follow. Sleep on my dear noble brother and may I see you again in heaven.
PATRICK SCHAUER, ESQ.
April 6, 2008
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
Eva Tripplett
April 6, 2008
I am sorry for your loss; Judge Pincham was an extraordinary man and will be deeply missed.
Philip Krone
April 6, 2008
Dear Pincham family,
First, our condolences to you for your loss, shared with you by countless friends. Your father was not only a legal giant, he was a great man who never failed to speak the truth as he saw it, which generally was the truth as it is.
I am writing from Cairo, Egypt and it is perhaps ironic, and perhaps not, that at 5 in the morning Chicago time last Thursday I was saying a prayer for your father at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Less than two hours later I inserted a prayer for your father in the Western (wailing) wall, and two hours after that said prayers in Bethlehem, not knowing that this was the day of your father's passing.
Among your father's many contributions to the advancement and welfare of mankind, shared for so many years by his wonderful wife and soulmate, your loving mother, was from my personal perspective the great support he gave my wife, Judge Joan Powell in her recent successful campaign for election to the Circuit Court. He served as Co Chair of her campaign, and despite his illness did a great deal for her as he also did for Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke, Judge Michael Hyman and many others. In fact, no one he supported actively lost in the recent February 5 primary.
He will be truly and sorely missed by so many, but hopefully, so many wonderful memories will sustain you in the days and years ahead.
May God Bless His Immortal Soul.
Phil Krone
Dr. Patrice D. Robinson
April 6, 2008
My sincere condolences to the Pincham family. I first met Judge Pincham and his beautiful wife about 25 years ago when I was a teacher at Percy Julian High School. Judge Pincham was the keynote speaker for graduation at the Arie Crown Theatre. I sat with his wife in the audience and marvelled at this educated and eloquent speaker. His support and concern for all people will be surely missed. My God bless you all and this wonderful gentle man.
Marjorie Spicer
April 5, 2008
We met at Faith United Methodist church many years ago where
judge Pincham and his lovely wife, Alzata were outstanding members. They later moved their membership to Trinity Church. However,they remained good friends with Faith members. Judge Pincham was invited to speak at many engagements at Faith Church. He never was too busy to return a call or to acknowledge any kind of correspondence with a "thank you" note.
I depended on him for advice regardless of how minor it was .I was reprimanded several times , in no uncertain terms, for my mistakes
but
I appreciated his candidness and good advice.
i will miss him greatly. My sympathy and blessings go to the family.
Marjorie Spicer and Family
Perkins Wedding, August 4, 2002, Judge R. Eugene Pincham Officiating
Shawn and Vania Perkins
April 5, 2008
We had the honor of having Judge Pincham preside over our wedding on August 4, 2002 at the Patrick C. Haley Mansion in Joliet, IL. He graciously performed the ceremony because Pastor Wright was unavailble. We lived on the West Coast at the time and he said he would do it because my Mom, Irean Hudson, asked AND we had to come by his home and get a bit of pre-marital counseling. And it was the best thing we could have ever done. He and Mrs. Pincham were very hospitable and showed us around their beautiful home and we even had a quick history lesson about his journey through his remarkable career. Our wedding was absolutely beautiful and Mrs. Pincham accompanied him. He refused to take any money from us to perform the service and even had Will County send us copies of the marriage license (at his expense) along with a letter of encouragement and blessings for our marriage.
We send our heartfelt sympathy to you, his family, during this difficult time. May God continue to keep and bless each and every one of you. Judge and Mrs. Pincham were a symbol of what a strong Black marriage epitomizes now and forever.
Deborah Brundidge Crawford
April 5, 2008
God Bless you for your service to people. May you Rest In Peace.
Yvette Pinchem-Stewart
April 5, 2008
My Prayers and Sympathy to the family. Although I never met R. Eugene I spoke with him on a couple of occasions while visiting Chicago. With names so close in spelling one only wondered if we weren't family.
May God Bless and Keep you in his memory.
Belinda Jones
April 5, 2008
One of my earliest and most fondest memories of Judge Pincham goes back to 1987, when I graduated from Percy L. Julian H.S. Judge Pincham was the speaker for my church's graduation banquet, and there was a lot of fuss about Judge Pincham coming. I didn't know who he was, but I learned so much after he spoke. I was very impressed by his eloquence and I remembered his story about how he struggled through Northwestern Law School. He was such a down to earth person the entire time and he will be missed. God bless you Judge Pincham.
Byron C. Thornton
April 5, 2008
Brother Pincham was a great lawyer, jurist, and activist. He will be sorely missed by all.
Chicago Alumni Chapter
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity
Martin Villard
April 5, 2008
My grandparents, Fletcher and Anna Thompson were friends of the Pincham family, and although my recollection is limited, I know he was well respected in our community. (Roseland/Roseland Heights) Mr. Pincham was a frequent guest in our home and I recognized him immediately as a man respected by my family. My sincerest condolences go out to his family and loved ones.
Richard Lazarski
April 4, 2008
I met Judge Pincham at a wedding three years ago and became his fan and admirer after speaking with him for 20 minutes.
I asked if I might visit with him at his home and he warmly agreed.
Over these past several years I had the opportunity to visit with him in his home on many occasions.His easy manner and warm welcome always set me at ease.
I believe that he was busier helping people when he retired, as he always had many people for whom he was their advocate. In some cases he was their only hope. He always gave them 200% !
He was a "gentlemen's gentleman."
I always thought of him as a "Gentle Man."
His stories of his early life of struggle and poverty touched my heart and changed me. With his passing, we lost a "Good Man." He was a man that will be difficult, if not impossible to replace. Judge Pincham was "one of a kind!"
I believe that as he entered heaven, God said, "Welcome Home Eugene.You did well !"
To his family, I ask that they accept my deepest sympathy.
Carter Carter
April 4, 2008
Thank you for being the unbashed champion of unpopualr causes. We will miss you.
Linda Cooper
April 4, 2008
Our prayers and sympathy to the family. God Bless
The Cooper Family (Dolton, IL)
Karen Sommerfield
April 4, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mel Clark
April 4, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Sylvia Reed
April 4, 2008
Rest in Peace Judge Pincham. To the family, you have my deepest sympathy.
Sandy Lewis
April 4, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Pincham family. His voice may be silent but, his legacy lives on.
Mr. & Mrs. Holloway
April 4, 2008
My Prayers and Sympathy are with the family members & friends of the Pincham family. He was truly an inspiration to so many.
Linda D. Neely
April 4, 2008
A legendary indeed.
E.M. Smith
April 4, 2008
To: The Pincham
Our prayers are with your Family.
May God Bless
Marshall F. Sullivan
April 4, 2008
I met Judge Pincham as a young man and was amazed by how down to earth and assesable to the very poor he was.
Bessie Townsend Davis
April 4, 2008
Gene was one of my dearest friends from childhood through college. We shared many happy moments throughout life. Each year when I visited Chicago for the Christmas holidays, I attended Gene's court sessions and was thoroughly entertained, educated and filled with pride and awe. Gene was brilliant, funny, honest and caring. He was a friend for all times. I will miss him. God Bless you, Family!
Mary Elizabeth Yarbrough Sullivan
April 4, 2008
Bobby once told me years ago, "...if you ever need me Liz, I am only a telephone call away...". Bobby was true to his word. His mother Mrs. Hazel Caldwell was my elementary school teacher in Athens, AL. Bobby, Alzata, Bessie Townsend Davis and I attended Tennesee State University together. Bobby knew and respected the importance of family. He was wonderful to me and to my family. We all loved him and we grieve with his family. God Bless You, Pincham Family.
Marie Cole
April 4, 2008
I had the opportunity to hear Judge Pincham speak as a guest lecturer at DePaul Law School. His forceful voice and commanding presence held everyone's attention that day.
I later had the opportunity to work with him on a custody case. This was one of the most interesting cases of my career. I will always remember his unique sense of humor.
I would like to express my deepest condolences to his family in their time of grief.
D.L. ZIMMERMAN
April 4, 2008
REST IN PEACE R. EUGENE PINCHAM
Lynne Lewis
April 4, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy to the family of Judge Pincham.
Esther
April 4, 2008
You are one of the best, You stood up for what you believed in and for what was right. Sorry to see you go; your work is done here on Earth well done, thy good and faithful servant.
My condolences to your family.
The Lord is my Shephard
Alzina Barnes Miller
April 4, 2008
Thank you Judge Pincham for your bravery in championing the causes for the downtrodden.
dorris hilliard
April 4, 2008
To th family, earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal, I am sorry for your lose.
carmen anderson
April 4, 2008
I am a stranger and have also been a victim of prejudice and segregation even tho I am Hispanic. racisim knows no boundries. Our advocates against racisim should live forever because of the wonderful work that they do. Your Father is one of them. What a legacy he leaves you!
E. Paul Jones, Executive Director
April 4, 2008
THE MUSEUM OF LAW & SCIENCE: Our organization to provide services that highlighted the legal community and the achievements of great legal practitioners was birthed out of the ideas and principles that the most Honorable R. Eugene Pincham, Sr. expressed in his living. In our initial meeting the museum's concept was created.
We thank him in his passing to another phase of eternity as we had many times tried to thank him in his day to day activities as one of the most exciting and successful legal practitioner on the planet. Many times we have met on the street and not once did he fail to remind us to be strong and be right in our strength as people whether we were black; white; hispanic; or oriental. He was that kind of person you could stand next to and feel as though you had an army behind you. He was the same kind of person who you could stand next to, and you would cry, because there was hope in his presence when all else was lost. We will miss you 'Judge'. But we...I...will never forget you. You have touched our hearts. And you have changed our lives. That is God's purpose for all men. And you were one, of few, who have accomplished that purpose...
Christopher Helt
April 4, 2008
Dear Judge,
You were a man above men. Sometimes misunderstood, but your convictions never challenged. You utilized the gift God gave to you well, and taught countless others how to be strong. I, like many, had the privilege of standing in your shawdow. I will never forget our catfish lunchs, the six-week trial which I had the honor of 3rd-chairing with you, the immigration trial we co-chaired in which you saved a young African's life, arguing the difference between that young man and you was that your relatives "didn't come to America by choice." Your words were strong, heart-felt, and rarely sugercoated.
You were my sponsor to the U.S. Supreme Court, my early mentor, the life of our annual "holiday party" spoke at my wedding, and of course, our dear friend.
You helped me when I was in need: a man from a very different background; different color. While it would be hard pressed for any African-American not to smile and shake your hand when you walked down the street, what most are unaware is that you would help all--anyone-all colors--one simply had to ask. Race was not important to you, unless it was used to hurt and discriminate...
My prayers go out to you and your family, but we all know you are in a better place and with Alzata now.
We will always love you, and keep you in our prayers.
Christopher, Susan, Sophia, & Chloe Cassidy Helt
April 4, 2008
May God comfort your hearts on the homegoing of your loved one. What a remarkable man who worked untiringly to help those who needed it most. He leaves behind a great legacy for us to follow. Be encouraged to know that his labor has not been in vain.
RALLA KLEPAK
April 4, 2008
A family friendship began between Judge Pincham and my family when he started Northwestern Law School and was "adopted" by my Aunt Evelyn Klepak. Not a year has gone by until she recently passed away, without a special greeting from him to her and their friendship became an extended family affair of another generation. I was and shall always be proud to call him"friend" and mentor. He once told me that "we all stand on the shoulders of someone else." As a young lawyer, he allowed me to stand upon his shoulders. I shall miss you friend...and your wondrous shoulders from which all could see a vision of JUSTICE.
Michael Ward
April 4, 2008
I met Judge Pincham as a young attorney, part of a team of Assistant State's Attorneys trying a triple homicide in his court. During breaks in the trial, counsel from both sides would gather in his chambers to talk and to listen to him share stories of his many experiences, both professional and personal. Even more than his engaging personality, I remember the interest he took in lending guidance to the young lawyers. Although always an intense individual, he never seemed more engaged than when he would talk about his family and his children, whom he loved very much. Throughout my professional career, the advice he shared has been my guide. It was a pleasure to know Judge Pincham. He will be missed by those who knew him, by those looking for a champion for their cause, and by me.
Sid Kelly
April 4, 2008
Judge Pincham, you will be missed. Please rest in peace?
Linda turner
April 4, 2008
Justice Pincham was a marvelous advisor, counselor and friend.
I offer my condolences to his family.
Sister M. Roland Lagarde, S.B.S.
April 4, 2008
Prayers and Sympathy to the family and friends of Mr. R. Eugene Pincham. He did great things for our African American people. May he rest in peace.
Joyce C. Tyus
April 4, 2008
To the Pincham Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. May God be with you always.
Beverly Reynolds
April 4, 2008
May God continue to Bless the family of the honorable R. Eugene Pincham.
S. E. Dyson
April 4, 2008
Mr. Pincham was a champion of our people and a very intelligent GENTLEMAN who will never be forgotten ! God Bless you and your family !
Joseph C Parisi
April 4, 2008
Judge R. Eugene "Gene " Pincham
A man who will be remembered for his
kindness,courage,and strength. He was loved by many,and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Condolences to the family. God Bless
Aleta Gore
April 4, 2008
The world has lost an outspoken advocate for the little people.
Leasha Dixson
April 4, 2008
God Bless and Keep You. Thank you for supporting the rights of all people. We are here, cause You were there!!
Thank you-
The Dixson Family, Chicago, Illinois
michael thames
April 4, 2008
mr.pincham was a great man who represented me in a civil rights case back in 1991 against the city of chicago police department
D & G Pampena
April 4, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
Odie Payne IV
April 4, 2008
Though we lost a giant who loved his people, his spirit will forever be with us.
Jim Calhoun (MSJ 93)
April 3, 2008
Even though it had been years since I heard his name, when news of Judge Pincham's death moved across the Associated Press wire Thursday, the memories came flooding back. He was so kind to me when I was a journalism student at Northwestern University and had to spend that miserable Chicago winter of 1982-83 at 26th and Cal. covering the criminal courts. I always stopped by his courtroom and found it fascinating to watch him in action. And when I needed a profile subject for a class assignment, he graciously gave of his time to help me out. I will never forget that, or him. Thanks, judge.
Y Evans
April 3, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
HOWARD AND EDNA PINCHAM
April 3, 2008
THE PINCHAM FAMILY IN YOUNGSTOWN, OHIO ARE GRIEVED AND SAD TO HEAR OF OUR COUSIN'S PASSING WE ARE PRAYING FOR ALL OUR FAMILY. PEACE TO YOU CHILDREN.
La Shawn Cobb
April 3, 2008
i will like to send my deepest sympathy to his family and friends. The world is going to be missing a wonderful person.
NAOLA HOPSON-BOX
April 3, 2008
PINCHAM FAMILY,
THOUGH I DIDN'T KNOW JUDGE PINCHAM PERSONALLY, I FELT AS THOUGH I DID, BECAUSE A DEAR FRIEND & NEIGHBOR OF MINE, WHO IS NOW DECEASED SPOKE OF HIM OFTEN. SHE GREW UP WITH HIM IN ALABAMA AND WAS A CLASSMATE OF HIS. GOES TO SHOW YOU JUST HOW SMALL THIS WORLD REALLY IS. MY SYMPATHY GO OUT TO THE FAMILY OF MR. PINCHAM.
PRAYERFULLY, NAOLA
Mrs. Angela Bowman
April 3, 2008
A man for all people.
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