Mahalia France-Mir: Tributes to popular Yorkshire councillor who was a ‘source of joy’
Tributes have been paid to a popular Leeds councillor who died earlier this week.
Mahalia France-Mir, councillor for the Moortown ward on Leeds City Council, died on January 19. Tributes from leaders across Yorkshire have flooded in.
Coun James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: "Mahalia was an exceptional woman who will be deeply missed and our thoughts are with her family and friends at this very difficult time.
"Mahalia represented Moortown and Meanwood ward and will be remembered for her great compassion and warmth as well as breaking barriers as one of the few Muslim women elected as a councillor in Leeds.
"She meant so much to so many people in Leeds, particularly to the residents she was passionate about representing, and her colleagues at the council, her loss is widely felt."
Flags on Civic Hall have been lowered to half mast today (Jan 21) in her honour.
Coun Dan Cohen, Lord Mayor of Leeds, said: “She was a generous and compassionate person whose presence was always a source of joy.
“We shared many conversations and she was immensely proud of her children/family. It is incomprehensible that she is no longer with us.
“My thoughts and condolences along with those of the City of Leeds are with her husband, children and family. She will be greatly missed by those who were fortunate to know her.”
Local community group Leeds Dads also paid tribute.
On Facebook, it said: “We have lost an inspirational team member and contributor to the Leeds Dads family with the passing of Cllr Mahalia France-Mir.
“She worked tirelessly to promote, fundraise, and elevate our image and ethos. We are at a loss without her energy, spirit and genius.
“For me, Mahalia lives on in every smile of every playful child, resting dad, and sweaty softplay or messy breakfast.
“She echoes in the words of volunteers and dads alike, those who find refuge in the support group that she helped to build, promote and protect.”
They said Mahalia worked for free behind the scenes to engage father, support mothers, and develop children and families in Leeds.
The post added: “As a woman in public office, Mahali made a tremendous difference, and found ways to show her passion and energy to support the residents of her constituency.
“She made things happen. She drove progress to get things done for the better. We hold your torch aloft.”