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Stephen J. Harmelin (1939-2025)
Steve’s remarkable journey began with his graduation from the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard Law School. After a formative and impactful experience serving in the White House under President Lyndon Johnson, he joined Dilworth Paxson in 1965. Steve built a practice that was impressive in stature, representing many distinguished clients.
What set Steve apart was not only his legal prowess but also his devotion to the city of Philadelphia and civic leadership that the firm’s founder, Richardson Dilworth, so deeply admired. Steve embraced his civic vision and became a trustee of the Barnes Foundation, where he played a pivotal role in the transfer of its collection of French art and founded the National Constitution Center, a landmark institution.
His contributions to the City of Philadelphia were immense and lasting. Steve brought the same vision and energy to his civic life as much as he did to his corporate practice and in the boardroom. At Dilworth, Steve was more than a Partner; he was an institution that brought integrity and vision to his practice of law.
Steve’s legacy will serve to guide and inspire the next generation at Dilworth.
Stephen J. Harmelin
William T. Coleman (1920-2017)
William T. Coleman, a Philadelphia Native, was involved in some of the most consequential events and legal milestones of the country, shaping civil rights and institutions. His legal experience spans decades, and his impact is still felt today.
Coleman served as Co-Counsel alongside Thurgood Marshal in the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education in 1954. The case dismantled the idea of “separate but equal” and transformed the landscape of race relations in America. He later became the Chairman of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Legal Defense and Education Fund, continuing his commitment to equality and justice nationwide.
Later, Coleman was appointed as Senior Counsel to the Warren Commission, guiding the nation in the wake of former President Kennedy’s death and a tumultuous chapter in the nation’s history. As a Philadelphia attorney, Coleman played a pivotal role in the historic Girard College desegregation cases, serving as lead counsel. He was also instrumental in the creation of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA).
Coleman brought the same level of passion and commitment when President Gerald Ford appointed him as Secretary of Transportation in 1975, making him one of the first African Americans to serve in the United States Cabinet.
William T. Coleman Jr.’s life was one of courage and unwavering service to the community. His legacy not only lasts within Dilworth but with the nation as well.
William T. Coleman
Richardson K. Dilworth (1898-1974)
Richardson K. Dilworth, long-time partner at the firm, was one of Philadelphia’s most influential civic leaders in addition to being an accomplished and highly regarded trial lawyer representing many of the major institutions in the city.
As Philadelphia District Attorney and later the 91st mayor of Philadelphia, Dilworth helped lead a transformative practice by restoring integrity and professionalism to local government. As Mayor, Dilworth prioritized urban revitalization and historic preservation, leaving a lasting mark in Center City Philadelphia.
Beyond Philadelphia, Dilworth served as president of the United States Conference of Mayors, bringing his leadership and devotion to civic life to the national stage. His legacy serves as the benchmark of dedication to the local community and public service.
Image source: Philadelphia City Archives.
Richardson K. Dilworth