The Lummi Nation is mourning the passing of hereditary Chief Bill James.
Lummi Communications says he passed away Monday surrounded by his family.
James was appointed hereditary Chief in 2010 for his life-long efforts to learn Lummi history, language and tradition and teach it to young tribal members.
He was featured in a video produced by environmental media organization grist.com in which he spoke against a coal port proposed for Cherry Point.
The news release says all members of the tribe carry with them “a little piece of him in our walk of life.”