Charles B. Rangel, Former NY Congressman Has Died at 94

Charles B. Rangel, the former New York congressman who represented his Harlem district for forty-six years, has died. He was 94. Rangel was first elected to Congress in 1970, when he unseated Adam Clayton Powell Jr, a 13-term incumbent, according to the New York Times. He went on to serve longer than almost any other New Yorker, 23 terms.

He Led a Life of Service

Rangel, known as Charlie to many of his friends, was the last of New York’s Gang of Four. An influential quartet of Black leaders, which included New York City Mayor David  Dinkins, New York Secretary of State Basil Patterson, and Percy Sutton, a lawyer and civil rights activist whose collective influence was far-reaching for decades.

Rangel was born on June 11, 1930. According to his congressional biography, he attended Dewitt Clinton High School, received a Bachelor of Science from New York University’s School of Commerce, and obtained his Juris Doctorate from St. John’s University Law School. Rangel was a veteran of the Korean War, and also served as Assistant US State Attorney of the Southern District of New York, and counsel to the New York State Assembly, and a member of the New York State Assembly before running for Congress.

In 1964, he married Alma Carter, a social worker he met at The Savoy Ballroom. She preceded him in death. He is survived by his son, Steven; daughter, Alicia Rangel Haughton; and three grandsons.

Charles Rangel’s Legacy Will Be Remembered

Rangel was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus. The organization’s Chair, Yvette D. Clark, and members issued the following statement:

“It is with deep respect and profound sadness that we mourn the passing of former Congressman Charles B. Rangel of New York. On behalf of the 61 members of the Congressional Black Caucus, I extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.

“Congressman Rangel was the very definition of a life devoted to public service. Born in Harlem in 1930, he served with distinction in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, earning both the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his courage and sacrifice. His commitment to serving others continued in the halls of the New York State Assembly and then the United States Congress, where he represented his community and country for nearly 50 years.

“A trailblazer and statesman, Congressman Rangel was a founding member and former Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus. He made history as the first African American to chair the powerful House Ways and Means Committee in the House of Representatives. Known affectionately as the Lion of Lenox Avenue”, his legacy is one of tireless advocacy, historic firsts, and unwavering dedication to justice and equality. May he rest in power and everlasting peace.”

We extend our sincere condolences to the Rangel family.