We regret to inform you of the passing of Dr. Nellie B. King. On Saturday, January 11, 2025, the City of Lackawanna lost a giant.
Dr. Nellie B. King was the first African American woman Superintendent to serve the students and families of Lackawanna. During a decade as Superintendent of the Lackawanna City School District, Mrs. King developed and initiated the Kids in Spotlight Program, Lackawanna Center for Family Achievement, and the District Model Aids Program. During the 1998-99 academic year, she researched selected school districts strong arts education and humanities programs across the country for the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities, which resulted in a published report, “Gaining the Arts Advantage."
In the community, Mrs. King provided civic and religious services throughout the nation. Focusing on youth and adult leadership, she held mentorship in the highest regard, making it a priority to empower others to take on leadership roles. Since launching her girls mentoring program in 2008, Unlimited Possibilities Overcoming Poverty Ministry, Inc. she has helped 75 young women pursue their college aspirations with scholarships totaling $75,000.00. She is also the recipient of many other awards, citation and other honors. She believed in “doing what she can to serve mankind and do the work of the Lord."
The Celebration of Nellie B King's life will be at Mount Calvary on Genesee and East Parade on Thursday, January 23, 6 to 8 p.m. The funeral will follow on Friday, January 24 from 11 a.m. to noon.
Learn more about the life and achievements of Dr. King at https://www.uncrownedcommunitybuilders.com/person/nellie-b-king