Honoring the life and legacy of Ronald R. Donatucci, Sr., a dedicated public servant and renowned political leader.

WHEREAS, Ronald R. Donatucci, Sr., dedicated his entire career to public service and imparted that dedication to his entire family; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Donatucci’s career in public service began with work as a law clerk in the Law Department, and he later served as chief of enforcement for the Department of Licenses and Inspections, as well as counsel to the Philadelphia Parking Authority; and

WHEREAS, Following these appointive offices, Mr. Donatucci served as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the 185th District. He was succeeded in that position by his brother, Robert, and his sister-in-law, Maria; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Donatucci subsequently served as Philadelphia’s Register of Wills for a full four decades. In that role, he oversaw the probate of decedents’ estates and served as the ex-officio Clerk of the Orphans’ Court; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Donatucci also served as a trustee for Temple University and as president of the Board of Directors of City Trusts. Beneficiaries of the City Trusts include Girard College and Wills Eye Hospital; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Donatucci was also a longtime political force in South Philadelphia, serving as leader of the 26th Democratic Ward. A sought-after advisor and endorser among political hopefuls, Mayor Jim Kenney has called him “the dean of politics.” He also served as a super-delegate at the 2008 Democratic National Convention, during which Barack Obama received his historic nomination. In a poetic turn of fate, Mr. Donatucci passed away on November 4, 2020, Election Day for a presidential general election; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Donatucci’s legacy and his impact on Philadelphia will be remembered for many a year to come; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby honors the life and legacy of Ronald R. Donatucci Sr. Esq, for his public service and dedication the citizens of Philadelphia.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Ronald R. Donatucci, Sr., further evidencing the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body.

End