Fluvanna’s first, only African American Board of Supervisors member dies

FLUVANNA COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Fluvanna County's first and only African American woman elected to the Fluvanna County Board of Supervisors died on Tuesday, the county announced.

Mozell Booker, a former board member, served as the Fork Union District Representative for 16 years until her retirement in January 2024. The county announced that Booker died on Tuesday, Sept. 30.

According to a release from Fluvanna County, Booker was the first and only -- to date -- African American woman elected to the board, as well as the first and only -- to date -- woman to serve as chair.

"I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my predecessor, Mrs. Mozell Booker,” shared Mike Goad, current Fork Union District Representative. “[As the] first African American woman elected to the Board of Supervisors in Fluvanna."

Chris Fairchild, a Board of Supervisors member, reflected on his relationship with Booker, explaining that their relationship "went beyond friendship," per a release.

“She was a mentor," Fairchild said. "Growing up, and later as colleagues on the Board, Mozell showed me what integrity and care for our neighbors should look like." Fairchild said.

Booker also served on many county and regional boards and committees, including the Fluvanna County Community Policy and Management Team, Fluvanna Social Services Board, Youth Advisory Committee, Partnership for Aging, JABA Board of Directors, Fork Union Sanitary District Advisory Board, Rivanna River Basin Commission, Fluvanna/Louisa Housing Foundation, and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

"The County extends its deepest sympathies to Mrs. Booker’s family, friends, and all those who have been touched by her unfailing care and support," the county said. "She will be greatly missed."

A memorial service for Booker will be held in spring 2026, according to the county.