JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Robert G. Clark, who was elected in 1967 as Mississippi’s first Black lawmaker of the 20th century and rose to the second-highest leadership role in the state House of Representatives, will lie in repose at the Mississippi State Capitol.

According to the Mississippi House of Representatives, Clark will lie in repose on Sunday, March 9. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Clark died Tuesday at age 96, his son said. Rep. Bryant Clark, who succeeded Robert Clark, said his father died of natural causes at home in Holmes County.

Elected in 1967, Clark shattered racial barriers and served 36 years in the Mississippi House, rising to House Speaker Pro Tempore in 1992.

A lifelong advocate for education and Black representation in government, he played a pivotal role in expanding opportunities for all Mississippians. Honored at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in 2018, Clark’s legacy is one of resilience and progress.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.