ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A longtime advocate for the poor and disenfranchised, Father Laurence Tracy, has died. 

Friends have confirmed that he passed away Thursday morning at Strong Memorial Hospital after battling ALS.

Father Tracy served churches throughout Rochester for more than five decades, and is well known for his service to the poor and Latino communities.

"Padre Tracy" retired in 2002, but continued to help served the community.

Father Tracy was celebrated in May for a new wellness center that was named in his honor.

He was 78-years-old.

State Sen. Joe Robach called Father Tracy an extraordinary man and a lover of all people. Robach said in a statement: 

"He was loved and revered at St. Michael’s parish, in the Latino community and in the community at large. Father Tracy's impact and legacy will be remembered for generations to come and he will be truly missed."

Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren also released a statement, saying in part:

"If anyone deserves sainthood, it was Father Tracy. He has been a driving force in our community for decades. Especially in our Hispanic community. Looking to uplift to provide opportunity to provide all types of just belief to people that were voiceless and giving them a voice."

For those who have stories or pictures about Father Tracy that they would like to share, please email padretracyblog@gmail.com. To read other stories regarding the esteemed advocate, please click here

Calling hours will be held Monday and Tuesday at St. Michael's Church at 869 N. Clinton Avenue. Funeral mass will be heled Wednesday at 10 a.m.