Remembering the Life and Legacy of Ranger Betty Reid Soskin

An Enduring Legacy

Betty Reid Soskin’s life was a testament to courage, perseverance, and dedication to truth. She didn’t merely witness history—she corrected it, preserved it, and amplified the voices that had been ignored.

From segregated union halls to national recognition by a sitting president, her journey reflected the broader struggles and triumphs of African Americans in the 20th and 21st centuries.

She lived intentionally, fought tirelessly for justice, and used her platform to educate and inspire generations.

Soskin’s impact extended beyond the National Park Service; she transformed communities, reshaped historical narratives, and championed the power of storytelling as a tool for social change.

Her passing on December 21, 2025, at the age of 104, marked the end of a remarkable life, but her legacy endures.

A public memorial will be announced at a later date, and in lieu of flowers, her family has requested donations be made to Betty Reid Soskin Middle School or toward completing her documentary.

Both serve as fitting tributes to a woman who spent her life ensuring that history—and those who made it—would never be forgotten.

Betty Reid Soskin’s life reminds us that age is no barrier to impact, that courage and vision can create lasting change, and that the stories of those who fought, persevered, and dreamed must always be remembered. She didn’t just preserve history—she shaped it. She didn’t just witness change—she was the change.

Rest in peace, Betty Reid Soskin. Your life, your legacy, and your lessons will echo for generations to come.