Local icon, legend, and long-time publisher of the California Advocate newspaper Lesly Howard Kimber passed away on January 10. Affectionately known as “Les” to many, he was surrounded by family and close friends when he died. Kimber was 80 years old.
Kimber was also known for being the first African American elected to city council from West Fresno. He was the co-founder of the California Advocate, Fresno’s only African American media outlet, and the founder of the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday celebration in Fresno. Details of his celebration service will be released in the coming days.
Kimber’s family wishes to thank the community for their continued support and prayers, and asks for privacy during this time of grief.
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