Louisville Mourns the Sudden Death of Mayor Craig Greenberg

Louisville Mourns the Sudden Death of Mayor Craig Greenberg

By [Your Name], Staff Writer

Louisville, KY – June 3, 2025

The city of Louisville is in a state of profound shock and mourning following the sudden and unexpected death of Mayor Craig Greenberg early Tuesday morning. He was 50.

Greenberg, who took office as the 51st mayor of Louisville in January 2023, passed away at his home, according to a statement released by the Mayor’s Office. Details surrounding the cause of death remain limited, though early reports suggest it may have been the result of a heart attack. An official autopsy is expected to be conducted in the coming days.

Governor Andy Beshear ordered flags across Kentucky to be flown at half-staff in honor of Greenberg’s service and leadership. “Craig was a tireless advocate for the people of Louisville. His loss is not only a loss for the city, but for the entire Commonwealth,” Beshear said in a statement Tuesday afternoon.

Greenberg, a Democrat and former business executive, rose to political prominence through a message of unity, innovation, and public safety. His administration prioritized affordable housing, police reform, economic development, and the revitalization of neglected neighborhoods.

Known for his calm demeanor and sharp intellect, Greenberg’s leadership helped guide the city through several crises, including public safety concerns, economic recovery efforts post-COVID-19, and major infrastructure initiatives.

Deputy Mayor Barbara Sexton Smith, who will serve as acting mayor until a special election is called, held back tears as she addressed the media Tuesday morning. “Craig was more than a colleague; he was a friend and a visionary. His heart was with this city, and everything he did was rooted in his love for the people of Louisville,” she said.

Condolences poured in from across the nation, with local and national leaders honoring Greenberg’s legacy. President Joe Biden issued a statement saying, “Mayor Greenberg’s passion for justice, opportunity, and progress was evident in every decision he made. He was a public servant of the highest integrity.”

Residents gathered on the steps of Metro Hall Tuesday evening for a candlelight vigil. Among them was 32-year-old Louisville native Marcus Lee. “Mayor Greenberg listened to us. He walked these streets and made people feel seen. He didn’t just talk — he acted,” Lee said.

Greenberg is survived by his wife, Rachel, and their two sons. In his final public appearance just days ago, he attended a community cleanup in the Smoketown neighborhood — one of his many grassroots efforts to bridge divides and build pride in Louisville’s future.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, but a public memorial is expected to take place later this week.

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