Albert Hale. Courtesy photo.
Coconino County Vice-chairwoman Lena Fowler issued the following statement, on behalf of the Board of Supervisors, regarding the passing of former Navajo Nation President and Arizona State Legislator Albert Hale.
“We are all deeply saddened and humbled by the passing of Albert Hale, former President of the Navajo Nation and Arizona State Legislator who represented much of Coconino County. Albert was a colleague and friend to many of us and his loss leaves a deep void in our hearts. Navajo people knew him simply as Ahbihay, his grandmother’s name for him. He believed in the Navajo traditions and championed the rights of Native people and tribal sovereignty.”
“Albert Hale’s passing from COVID-19 is a testament to the challenge before all of us in these times. Preventing loss, like Albert’s, is the number one goal of this year. As we raise up Albert’s memory and legacy, let us continue to steadfastly and wholeheartedly pour all of our attention and service into ending this pandemic.”