Brian Keith Albert (71) passed away in February 2025. He was a life long resident of New Britain and a dedicated community organizer as well as very active in the local NAACP chapter. I had the privilege of serving with him two terms on the Common Council of New Britain where we became close friends. I used to give him rides from his home to Common Council meetings.
As his obituary said, “Keith was always known as a community organizer, personally and professionally. His career was was based on a path of public service: as a community organizer at the CT Citizens’ Action Group (CCAG); Director of the Neighborhood Social Service Program at the Mount Pleasant public housing project; social worker at the New Britain City Welfare Office, and consumer advocate at the CT Department of Public Utility Control.”
“Keith’s mission and passion in life,” his obituary noted, “was the enhancement of New Britain’s youth, through the development, implementation and coordination of recreational, cultural and educational programs and services.”
That mission was expressed in his active support for the New Britain Jr. Canes football and cheerleading organization, who gave tribute to him, saying,
Mr. Brian Keith Albert, an extraordinary pillar of kindness, commitment and community service. His unwavering dedication to our children, especially the NB Jr Canes, has been a constant source of inspiration. As the loudest at any football field, ALL families will turn and cheer right along with Mr. Keith! “HURR-I-CANE” “JR CAAAANES” “FUMBLE RECOVERY”. We will deeply miss his words of wisdom, particularly his favorite phrase, “What was meant to block only opened the doors wider!” His mantra of “BELIEVE” will continue to resonate with us. Mr. Keith, your uplifting presence will continue to motivate us, and we will draw strength from your remarkable example. Thank you for being an exceptional mentor and friend to our community. Your memory will be cherished.
“Brian Keith Albert was dedicated to serving the people of the city,” said former Mayor Tim O’Brien (D), “both in his work on the City Council and as an organizer. Not only were his motives always unwaveringly good, but he was a leader who understood that good things happen when everyday people organize and build a better future together.”
Whether through his advocacy for the people of New Britain on the Common Council and on city commissions, through his work as an advocate for youth and a community organizer, or through his activism in the Democratic Party, New Britain’s people have benefitted greatly from his work over many years.
New Britain lost a life-long activist and organizer who made a difference. May he rest in peace!
Editor’s note: The cover photo is by Dr Frank Gerratana.
