She lived a life that quietly connected generations and reshaped how history is understood and shared. Betty Reid Soskin, who was the oldest serving ranger in the National Park Service at the time of her retirement, passed away peacefully at the age of 104. Her family shared that she left this world fulfilled, purposeful, and surrounded by love. Her story reflects a life dedicated to service, learning, and honesty, showing that lasting influence comes from meaningful contributions rather than public attention.
Betty Reid Soskin retired from the National Park Service in 2022 at the age of 100, after beginning her work there later in life. She played an important role in shaping the Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park, helping ensure that the experiences of African Americans and other underrepresented communities were included. Through her work, visitors gained a broader and more accurate understanding of the home front during World War II, informed by personal experience and careful historical research.
Born in 1921, Soskin lived through many defining moments of American history. She grew up in a multicultural family and experienced the social and cultural changes of the twentieth century firsthand. During World War II, she worked in a segregated environment, an experience that influenced her lifelong commitment to inclusion and fairness. In 1945, she co-founded a music store that became a community landmark, and later served in local and state government roles focused on representation and civic involvement.
In her later years, Soskin remained actively engaged in education and public dialogue, often speaking about the importance of understanding history in its full context. In 2015, she was honored at a national ceremony attended by Barack Obama, a moment she described as meaningful and humbling. While her passing marks the end of a remarkable life, her influence continues through education, historical preservation, and storytelling. Her legacy endures as a reminder of the value of truth, dedication, and thoughtful service to future generations.
