The funeral for Mark Weiner, who died last week at age 62, was also a who’s who of local and national Democratic politics.
The front resembled an airport more than the front of a house of worship on the rainy day. Mourners dressed in black had to walk through metal detectors while security guards searched their belongings. Recording devices were not allowed at the event. Neither were umbrellas, which were left in a growing pile outside.
Staffers and volunteers who had helped with Hillary Clinton’s local primary race in April, staffed the event, signing people in and escorting media into the building. Local news outlets, as well as national press were there, following the former Secretary of State as she campaigns for President.
The Clintons were just two of the political heavyweights who attended the funeral for Mark Weiner
The occasion was studded with political celebrities. Democratic strategist James Carville and Virginia Governor Terry McCauliffe served as members of an honor guard, processing in before the casket. Civil rights activist Jesse Jackson said Weiner had a capacity to care, and to reach out to others. Jacskon said Weiner was godfather to some of his grandchildren.
Also in attendance were Governor Gina Raimondo and members of the state’s congressional delegation.
During the event, Weiner’s children, best friend – former Providence Mayor Joe Paolino –, and former president Bill Clinton all gave remarks. The Clintons became friends with Weiner in 1976, when he was just 22, working for Hillary Clinton on Jimmy Carter’s Presidential campaign.
Clinton peppered his eulogy with humorous anecdotes about work and travel with Weiner, including the time they lunched with Sophia Loren in a Swiss village. The funeral offered a rare glimpse of the former President in a time of personal reflection. His wife Hillary Clinton did not speak but appeared reflective and somber.
Weiner’s children made it clear their father has passed down his passion for Democratic politics. Son Richard Weiner described taking over for his father as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention. Weiner was too sick to attend, and his son called it an honor to serve in his stead.
Mark Weiner died last Tuesday after a battle with cancer.
