NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — A celebration of life was held for New Orleans civil rights activist and matriarch of the Morial family, Sybil Haydel Morial on Monday, Sept. 23, at Xavier University. Hundreds of friends and family gathered to pay their respects to Morial, who died recently at the age of 91. Kenner residents impacted by Hurricane Francine can now apply for federal assistance "She was really more than just a good person," said former Orleans Parish Sheriff Marlin Gusman. "She was a leader, a trailblazer. And listening to what Marc, her son, said today, that a lot of great things wouldn't have happened in the city but for her." The first Black first lady of New Orleans, Morial was an inspiration to people far beyond the Big Easy. Her contributions influenced individuals across the country, making a difference in people's lives nationwide. (WGNO/Pat Thomas)(WGNO/Pat Thomas)(WGNO/Pat Thomas)(WGNO/Pat Thomas)(WGNO/Pat Thomas)(WGNO/Pat Thomas) "She was a good leader, and she was a good mama," said Reverend Dr. Willie Gable. "You know, in New Orleans, we all have extra mamas the way we have it in the mother land. Everybody is called mom. And we're certainly going to sorely miss her." One of the many and arguably most important roles Morial held was mom. "America has lost one of the last living personalities, Ambassador Young, from that magic era of the '50s and '60s that opened doors so that we could walk through them," said her son, Marc Morial. Jefferson Parish drainage improvements in the works "The advice moms share captures her persona, the spirit of her heart and her vigilant purpose," said her daughter, Dr. Julie Morial. The celebration was wrapped up with a traditional New Orleans procession that started at the New Orleans Museum of Art, led by the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Rookie Jayden Daniels nearly flawless for Commanders in 38-33 win over Bengals Lower humidity later in the week Helene likely to strengthen rapidly once in the eastern Gulf Ohio woman has 'miracle' baby after husband's tragic death on honeymoon Volunteers want sheriff to pick up human remains found in desert