Justices Say Farewell

Here are reactions from some of Supreme Court Justice Harry A. Blackmun’s colleagues to his announcement that he will retire:

* Justice David H. Souter: “I dissent.”

* Justice Sandra Day O’Connor: “With Justice Blackmun’s retirement, following so soon that of Justice (Byron R.) White, we will have lost much of the institutional memory of the court. His presence here for 24 years has been marked by compassion for individual litigants and by careful attention to detail. We will miss him.”

* Justice John Paul Stevens: “Justice Blackmun is the quintessential gentleman and scholar. His judicial work combines meticulous accuracy and sensitive awareness of the impact of our decisions on the real world. Far more than most of us, he has labored to make the law the servant of justice and decency. I am honored by his friendship and shall miss his wise counsel.”

* Justice Clarence Thomas: “It was an honor to have worked with Justice Blackmun, and I am saddened to see him retire; he will be deeply missed. He is a friend and colleague, and it has been a pleasure to work with him.”

* Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist: “Justice Blackmun has made significant contributions to the court’s jurisprudence . . . . On a personal note, he was the only member of the court whom I knew when I came 22 years ago and I shall miss him.”

* Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, in a note to Blackmun: “You have shown us all that it is possible constantly to grow in wisdom and in humanity. And when you ask questions, they are the best. A sample from 20 years ago is enclosed. You helped me to end on a high note that day.” She enclosed part of the transcript of a 1974 case that she argued as an attorney before the high court.

* Retired Justice William J. Brennan: “Justice Harry Blackmun has served with enormous distinction during 24 terms on the court and throughout his career. The combination of abiding humility, deep compassion, formidable legal insight and a tireless work ethic have made Justice Blackmun a magnificent jurist, an admirable human being and a wonderful friend.”

* Retired Justice Byron R. White: “Justice Blackmun has left many important and meaningful tracts on the federal law throughout his 34 years as a jurist. He was a very satisfactory colleague and has had a great career.”