TTD President Willis dies

Editor's note: This story has been updated with comments from Amtrak, the AAR and ASLRRA.

Larry Willis, president of the Transportation Trades Department (TTD) AFL-CIO, died yesterday of injuries he sustained Nov. 22 in a biking accident, union officials announced today. Willis was 53.

Willis was elected president of TTD in 2017. He previously served as TTD's secretary treasurer, general counsel and legislative representative. Earlier in his career, he was an associate and director of legislation for Weil, Gotshal and Manges LLP and served in various legislative roles on Capitol Hill and on political campaigns.

In his role as TTD president, Willis oversaw the labor organization's daily operation and served as its spokesperson and chief strategist.

"For more than 20 years, Larry dedicated his life to the labor movement, working tirelessly to enhance the rights and livelihoods of those who work on the front lines of our transportation system," said TTD Secretary-Treasurer Greg Regan in a prepared statement. "His mastery of complex legal and regulatory issues set the foundation for TTD's policy leadership, and raised the bar for demanding and enforcing worker protections throughout our nation's transportation system."

Amtrak President and Chief Executive Officer William Flynn described Willis as a "true champion" of the nation's transportation system and its workers.

"Larry was a strong advocate for Amtrak and believed in the need for a robust, modern, well-funded national passenger-rail network for the nation," Flynn said in a statement. "Our thoughts are with Larry's family, his TTD and labor colleagues, and all of those in the transportation industry that were touched by Larry's deep passion and fierce advocacy for transportation workers during this difficult time."

Association of American Railroads (AAR) President and CEO Ian Jefferies issued the following statement: "Larry's passing is a tremendous loss for all who knew this thoughtful, tireless advocate for the transportation and labor communities. Larry always was clear-eyed about his mission as the head of TTD — protect and fight for the people that keep America moving. I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his family at this remarkably challenging time."

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) also issued condolences.

"The short-line railroad community extends its sympathies and condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Larry Willis," said ASLRRA President Chuck Baker in a statement. "He was a major voice in the transportation, infrastructure and labor communities, and his leadership and expertise will be missed by all."

Willis is survived by his wife Amy and daughter Samantha.