March, 68, died Saturday, July 20, at Sunnybrook Hospital.

He left an extensive record of community involvement, earning the title of “elder”.

March, among other things, was the founding-director of the Zero Gun Violence Movement.

“He worked tirelessly, at the grassroots level, to inspire people to work together and take action,” said Olivia Chow, Mayor of the City of Toronto. “He often said it was his purpose to support communities through the painful grief and traumatic impact of gun violence.”

A cross-section of individuals and organizations has paid tribute to March, and extended condolences to his family. He was “a hero”, said Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw.

“Louis March was a community leader and anti-gun violence advocate, who worked to unite people and help us come together and work towards zero gun violence,” Demkiw said.

March was “a true leader”, said Jackie Taylor, executive vice-president of the Ontario Federal of Labour (OFL), which issued a statement on the passing of March.

“His legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” Taylor said. “We are mourning the loss of a true leader in our community. His years of dedication to empowering young Black individuals have left a mark on all of us.”

Although grieving the passing of March, “we also celebrate his remarkable contributions”, said the OFL. “He leaves behind a profound legacy and a generation of mentored youth to carry on his advocacy.”

March lived a modelled life and also “exemplified the words kindness, selflessness and vision”, said Sadu, an author and storyteller.

“He modeled his life for us to see. He didn’t just go to meetings and talked about doing something; he actually did it,” she said.

“When Louis is your friend, he’s your friend. You think that you’re his only friend,’’ added Sadu. “I remember him as a giant.”

Sadu applauded the “good work’’ of March, expressing optimism that “there will be now a new emergence of leadership that was mentored by him”.

March is survived by several family members including his wife Wendie; son Troy; his mother; and two brothers.

The family has announced an official community thanksgiving celebration “in honour of our ancestor, Elder March”.

Members of the community are being invited to register to receive a ticket to attend the event. Registration can be done via Eventbrite.

“With joy, gratitude and unity, Community members are invited to share loving memories of Louis and the many ways he touched our lives and shaped our vision for a strong, resilient and peaceful society,” a family notice said.

“It is going to be an afternoon of music, spoken word, dance, good vibes, inspiration and reflection on Elder Louis’s legacy as he begins his journey as a treasured ancestor.”

The celebration in honour of March is Sunday, August 25, 1 pm, at the St Lawrence Centre for the Arts, 27 Front Street East.