Federal Glover, the trailblazing public servant known for his deep love for community, has died at the age of 69. He passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at a hospital in San Francisco. Though the cause of death has not been made public, his passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Contra Costa County’s history.
Loved ones and officials across the region have praised Glover for a lifetime dedicated to fairness, public health, and environmental protection. His legacy is one of unwavering service and bold leadership.
First Black Supervisor in Contra Costa County
In August 2001, Federal Glover made history by becoming the first Black supervisor in Contra Costa County. He was sworn into office by Judge Garrett Jay Grant, breaking a racial barrier in a county long shaped by industrial labor and civic change.
Before joining the Board of Supervisors, Glover served on the Pittsburg City Council in the 1990s. Voters in District 5 elected him to the Board in 2000, entrusting him with the responsibility to represent communities including Pittsburg, Antioch, Martinez, Bay Point, Rodeo, Crockett, Hercules, and surrounding rural areas.
“He overcame so many obstacles in his life to get where he was,” said fellow Supervisor John Gioia, reflecting on Glover’s determined rise.
Champion for Health Care and Clean Air
Throughout his time in office, Glover fought to expand health services, particularly for the Black community. His passion for public health intensified after undergoing a heart and kidney transplant in 2015.
Environmental justice was another issue close to his heart. Glover worked tirelessly to hold the county’s four refineries accountable and reduce harmful pollution in nearby neighborhoods. His advocacy not only protected the environment but also the health of thousands of residents.
“He believed deeply in the power of community,” said his wife, Janis Glover. “And he worked tirelessly to uplift and unite the people he was honored to represent.”
A Leader Rooted in Pittsburg’s Working-Class Spirit
Federal Glover grew up in Pittsburg, California, the son of a steelworker and one of 12 children. He graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1975, where he served as homecoming king and class president. He was also the first in his family to attend college.
Though he often spoke about the racism and hardships he faced growing up, those challenges shaped the man he became — a local leader who believed in using his platform to fight for equity.
“He connected with people when he spoke from the heart, without notes,” Gioia recalled. “If it was a subject he really cared about, he was on it.”
A Legacy of Racial Equity and Community Service
Even after surviving serious health challenges, Glover kept serving. In 2020, during a national reckoning on racial justice, he co-founded the Contra Costa County Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice alongside Gioia. This office works to address systemic racism and promote fairness in county policies.
Glover retired in 2024 but remained involved in local affairs, endorsing Shanelle Scales-Preston, another Pittsburg native, as his successor on the Board. His influence, however, stretched far beyond politics.
“We honor Federal’s life and the positive impact he had on our community,” members of the Board of Supervisors wrote in a statement. Memorial service details will be shared with the public soon.
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