Malachi Greene wasn’t afraid of an argument – or laughter.

The former two-term Charlotte City Council member died last week after an extended fight against prostate cancer. He was 73. Mr. Greene represented District 2 from 1995-99, then emerged as an elder statesman to westside politicians and activists. His influence extended to state government as an advisor to N.C. governors Jim Martin and Mike Easley.

A memorial service will be held March 5 at First Baptist Church-West, 1801 Oaklawn Ave. at 12 p.m. The family will receive visitors at the church at 11 a.m.

“Malachi was smart, articulate, tough-minded politician but not an ideologue,” said former council colleague Don Reid, a Republican. “He truly cared about Charlotte. An abundance of common sense and a winsome, fun-loving personality made Malachi interesting to be around and truly one of Charlotte’s finest leaders.”

Mr. Greene, a Democrat, worked with Martin, a Republican, on education matters before bipartisanship became taboo in Raleigh. He was later appointed by Easley to the state Lottery Commission.

“Malachi served our city well as a fierce advocate for our school and for equal opportunity,” Mayor Jennifer Roberts said. “His strong voice at the table will be missed.”

Mr. Greene was a 1960 graduate of West Charlotte High School and a 1966 graduate of Livingstone College. He is survived by a wife and two daughters.

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