Statement from Dutchess County Executive Marcus J. Molinaro
Following the passing of Ms. Elouise Maxey
“Dutchess County mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished and influential residents, Elouise Maxey, President of the Northern Dutchess NAACP. Known as ‘Miss Elouise,’ she was a driving force behind the County’s successful efforts to ‘ban-the-box,’ re-establish the County’s Commission on Human Rights, and diversify the County’s workforce with the expansion of the Equal Employment Opportunity and Inclusion Officer role. Despite living in the Hudson Valley for nearly four decades, Miss Elouise never lost a bit of her southern charm and hospitality, which she deftly matched with her staunch advocacy for civil rights. She believed in and facilitated civil discourse as a way to defuse tensions, and foster understanding and mutual respect in our community. Miss Elouise was present for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous 1963 ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, and she marched from Selma, Ala. While she needed a walker in her later years, it didn’t stop her from marching for the rights and respect of all people. Miss Elouise’s legacy will continue by those who knew her, loved her and whom she inspired.”
The County Executive has ordered flags lowered at County facilities in honor of Elouise Maxey.
