"It is with the deepest sadness and most profound grief that I must share with you the news that our friend, colleague, mentor, partner and co-founder of Motley Rice, Ron Motley, has passed away.
"Like many of you, I started my career learning from Ron the ins and outs of fighting the asbestos industry. It was because of Ron’s passion, tenacity, intelligence and persistence that he was able to secure the first victory in favor of a plaintiff against an industry that had knowingly put people’s health in jeopardy for decades. That victory would be just one in the beginning of a respected law career that allowed him to be a pioneer for justice and warrior for social accountability.
"Ron’s passing is an incalculable loss for all those he devoted his life’s work to, whether it was people sick from asbestos poisoning, State Attorneys General taking on Big Tobacco, 9/11 family members seeking to bankrupt terrorism, or anyone else who wanted his or her day in court to redress injustice.
"As many of you experienced first-hand, Ron was many things. A true giant of the legal profession. A trail blazer and innovator. A charismatic master of the courtroom. A tenacious interrogator. But most of all, he was marked by unmatched courage in going after any wrongdoer, no matter how big and powerful, and by his bottomless well of compassion for those who have been wronged. He proudly lived his life as a trial lawyer.
"Ron left an extraordinary legacy. It is my commitment, even as we mourn, that we should all rise above our sadness and devote ourselves to carrying his legacy forward. Indeed, there is no better way we can celebrate Ron’s life and honor his memory than by redoubling our efforts to put the powerless on a level playing field with the powerful, to get them their day in court, and to win justice for all.
"Ron always valued the relationships that he had with you and your organization. Through partnerships and friendships, Ron was able to share his passion and talent with so many. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.
Joe
Joseph F. Rice | Attorney at Law | Motley Rice LLC
