Remembering the Life and Legacy of Ranger Betty Reid Soskin

She was a true trailblazer, a pioneer, and an inspiration to thousands. Yet despite her monumental contributions, not everyone knew her name or fully understood the depth and scope of her life’s work.

Today, we take a moment to honor Betty Reid Soskin—a woman whose life story reads like a chronicle of modern American history, told from the perspective of someone who lived it firsthand.

Betty Reid Soskin, the oldest living National Park Service ranger until her passing on December 21, 2025, was 104 years old.

Her final moments, surrounded by loved ones, reflected the life she had led: intentional, full, and profoundly meaningful.

In a statement released by her family on Sunday morning, they described her passing with reverence: she “led a fully packed life and was ready to leave.” And indeed, her life was extraordinary.

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