MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Mecklenburg County Commissioner Ella Scarborough has died at the age of 75, her family confirmed Tuesday night.
"A pioneer in North Carolina politics, Scarborough made history throughout her career," a statement on behalf of her family reads.
Scarborough was a native of Sumter, South Carolina, and moved to Charlotte in 1971. She served the city of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County for decades, becoming the first African American woman elected to Charlotte City Council in 1987, representing District 3. She was elected at-large in 1993.
She was elected to the Mecklenburg County Commission in 2014 and in 2016 was elected chair of the board. She also ran for mayor of Charlotte twice.
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles shared her condolences on Twitter Tuesday night, mourning the loss of her friend.
"I met Ella when I first ran for elected office and we became friends," Lyles said. "We both grew up in SC and embraced Charlotte as our new home. Her death is a significant loss for the city we both came to love. My thoughts are with her children, who are as smart & dynamic as their mother."
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper also shared his condolences, saying in a Tweet, "Mecklenburg County Commissioner Ella Scarborough led with integrity and honor. We’re grateful for her public service to our state, and our prayers are with her friends, family and the Mecklenburg County community."
The Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously on Feb. 8 to approve medical leave for Scarborough.
RELATED: Mecklenburg County officials approve medical leave request for Commissioner Ella Scarborough
Scarborough was a proud alumnus of South Carolina State University, her family said, and a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. She was also a member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Charlotte.
Scarborough is survived by her children, Troy and Tori, as well as her siblings and nieces and nephews.
Chris King Memorial Chapel in Chester, South Carolina, will be handling funeral services.
ALSO ON WCNC CHARLOTTE: Seeking Solutions: Churches providing affordable housing
WCNC Charlotte is committed to reporting on the issues facing the communities we serve. We tell the stories of people working to solve persistent social problems. We examine how problems can be solved or addressed to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference. WCNC Charlotte is seeking solutions for you. Send your tips or questions to newstips@wcnc.com.