HOUSTON - Houston legend Ovide Ducantell has died. He was 82 years old.
Duncantell founded the Black Heritage Society and the original Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade. He was a key figure in making sure the African-American community was better represented in Houston politics.
Mayor Sylvester Turner released the following statement Thursday on Duncantell's death:
"Ovide Duncantell and I ran for County Commissioner in 1984, and we both came up short. However, his commitment to the community and holding people accountable never waned. Ovide Duncantell was the force behind the Black Heritage Society, and the Black Heritage Society was deeply rooted in him.
"With the Black Heritage Society, he honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by organizing the MLK Jr. Day Parade and many other events surrounding the MLK weekend.
"The MLK Jr. Day Parade this January (2019) sponsored by the Black Heritage Society and supported by the City of Houston will be extra special as we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and remember and thank Ovide Duncantell for living a rich life of service."
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
