John Scott: Lawyer also was Pleasant Ridge mayor
October 30, 2007

BY JOE ROSSITER

FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER

Leadership through example was one of the defining aspects in John Scott's career as a respected lawyer and elected official, friends and colleagues say.

Mr. Scott was a longtime partner and senior trial lawyer with the Dickinson Wright firm and a former mayor of Pleasant Ridge. He died Oct. 16 at age 71 of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak.



The Troy resident was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, a year ago.

"John represented the very best of the legal profession," said Eugene Driker, a friend and professional associate with the Detroit law firm of Barris, Sott, Denn and Driker.

"He conveyed trust and honesty in his word and appearance, and the many young lawyers he mentored are a living legacy of his exceptional talents and high ethical standards."

Born in St. Louis, Mr. Scott earned a bachelor's degree from Albion College in 1958 and married Beverly Phillips, also an Albion graduate, two years later.

A year after that, Mr. Scott graduated from Wayne State University Law School and was hired by Dickinson Wright shortly afterward.

Among his peers, Mr. Scott was regarded as an expert in product liability litigation and was commended by many for his professionalism and commanding presence in the courtroom.

Mr. Scott also was elected mayor of Pleasant Ridge, serving four 2-year terms from 1973 through 1981.

His father, Gordon H. Scott, was the former dean of Wayne State University Medical School, whose main building is named in his honor.

He is survived by his wife; daughter Pamela Gardner; one grandchild, and a brother.

A memorial service is set for 1 p.m. Nov. 5 at the Wayne State University Community Arts Auditorium. His body was cremated.

Contact JOE ROSSITER at 313-222-6594 or jrossiter@freepress.com.
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