Press Statement  Supreme Judicial Court Statement on the Passing of Former SJC Chief Justice Herbert P. Wilkins

BOSTON, MA — The Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court are saddened by the passing of Chief Justice Herbert P. Wilkins who died on May 27. Appointed in 1972, Justice Wilkins served on the Supreme Judicial Court with great distinction for almost three decades. He was appointed Chief Justice in 1996 and served in that role until his retirement in 1999. As a jurist, he was known for his incisive rulings and meticulous attention to detail. His respectful and polite demeanor on and off the bench earned him the respect and admiration of all who worked with him. The people of the Commonwealth are fortunate that a person of his intellect, dignity and commitment to justice was willing to devote his talents in their service. The Justices and staff of the Supreme Judicial Court offer their deep condolences to the Wilkins family.