Bertha Roddey Obituary, Death – We are sad to inform you that Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey passed away on March 20, 2024, at the age of 93. A leader with vision and influence, Dr. Maxwell-Roddey shone brightly in our community and left an impression that went well beyond her years.
The work of Dr. Maxwell-Roddey will be treasured and remembered for many years to come. She devoted her life’s work to spreading knowledge, fighting for social justice, and honoring Black art, history, and culture. Our culture will never be the same because of her steadfast dedication to these causes.
Dr. Roddey’s development and shaping of the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture was one of her greatest accomplishments.
She was the inspiration behind the center, and her ambition was to create a place where the diverse heritage of African Americans could be honored and cherished. The Gantt Center’s dynamic exhibitions, educational activities, and community outreach projects ensure that her goal continues to be realized today.
A lot of people outside of the Gantt Center heard about Dr. Maxwell-Roddey. She paved the way for many other educators to follow in her footsteps, encouraging many pupils to follow their passions and achieve great things. Those fortunate enough to have known her were profoundly affected by her love of learning and her faith in the life-altering potential of education.
Dr. Maxwell-Roddey was an outspoken supporter of equality and social justice in addition to her artistic and educational endeavors.
She was a strong believer in the power of speaking out for oppressed groups and fighting injustice with her celebrity status. Because to her tireless advocacy, our society has been able to make great strides forward.
Despite our sadness at Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey’s passing, we find solace in the knowledge that her work will live on. Her steadfast dedication to equality and justice, along with her vision and enthusiasm, will serve as a source of inspiration for many years to come.
Her legacy will endure through the innumerable people she has touched and the difference she has made in our world, even though she is no longer physically present.
As Maya Angelou put it, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” For making us feel seen, heard, and appreciated, Dr. Maxwell-Roddey has our undying gratitude.
Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey, may you rest in peace. Those lucky enough to have known you will carry your memory with them forever.
