Betty Reid Soskin, the oldest ranger in the history of the National Park Service, passed away at her home in Richmond, California, on December 21, 2025, at the age of 104. Her family announced that she died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on the Winter Solstice. Soskin had a rich career, starting as a docent at the Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park Museum in California in 2007. She gained wider recognition for her work to highlight the stories of Black Americans during World War II, which culminated in her becoming a permanent employee of the National Park Service in 2011. Soskin's contributions included the development of the Rosie the Riveter National Historical Park, aimed at recognizing women's roles in the workforce during the war, and she was honored with a special parks passport stamp in her name during her centennial year in 2021. Born on September 22, 1921, in Detroit and raised in New Orleans, Soskin's life was marked by considerable achievements, including serving as a council member in Berkeley and owning a music store that was one of the first Black-owned record shops. Her activism and dedication to uncovering historical narratives exemplified her passion for service and history. Soskin's longevity was often a subject of curiosity; she expressed uncertainty about the secret to her long life, attributing it to simply putting one foot in front of the other and the importance of following one's passions. Among her many accolades, she was recognized as Woman of the Year by the California State Legislature in 1995 and was remembered fondly by former President Barack Obama, who praised her contributions to the community. The announcement of her passing was met with tributes from the National Park Service and the community, reflecting Soskin's profound influence on the lives of many through her storytelling and dedication to education. The confirmation of her death marks the end of a remarkable journey for a woman who not only witnessed but significantly contributed to the narrative of American history, particularly in relation to the experience of African Americans during pivotal times. Through her life and work, Betty Reid Soskin inspired many to engage with their history and advocate for recognition and representation, ensuring that the contributions of marginalized groups were not only acknowledged but celebrated within the broader spectrum of national history. Her legacy will continue through her influence on future generations, demonstrating the power of storytelling in fostering understanding and appreciation for diverse histories.