“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved NAACP Riverside Branch President and Community Icon Waudieur “Woodie” Rucker Hughes,” states a press release issued by the branch.

Woodie has served as the Riverside chapter’s branch president for close to 20 years. She also recently retired from the Riverside Unified School District where she served as Child Welfare Attendance Manager/District Coordinator for Homeless Education.

“Riverside has lost a great one. Woodie was knowledgeable, dependable and steadfast in her commitment to Civil Rights and community organizing. Her leadership and strength will be missed,” said San Bernardino NAACP President A. Majadi.

“On behalf of the Riverside County Chapter of the NAACP Executive Council, we ask that you celebrate with us the incredible legacy of our dear leader, teacher, soldier and beloved family member Ms. Woodie Rucker-Hughes by committing to continue the struggle for equal rights for all.”

The family thanks you for your prayers and requests privacy during this difficult time. Funeral arrangements will be forthcoming.