According to Peggy Cifrino, Colin Powell’s former chief of staff and family spokesperson, we are saddened to report the passing of Alma Powell, an American audiologist and the wife of the late military and political figure.

Alma played a pivotal role in the advancement of our youth, holding the title as the chair for the nonprofit organization, America’s Promise Alliance. She and Colin founded America’s Promise Alliance in 1997. The organization’s mission is to work to ensure a more just and equitable America that empowers the next generation to lead our country forward.

In a statement to CNN their three children, Michael, Linda, and Annemarie, shared that their mother was “the grounding force of our family.” 

“During childhoods marked by constant moving to new homes, we always felt secure, because home was wherever she stood. She was an exemplary role model for us and for the world. She served our country, alongside our father, with intelligence and grace. We will miss her terribly but take comfort in the fact that she had a life so well-lived and is reunited with our father.”

Alma was also a writer, having authored two children’s books. In an interview with BUILD, she shared how her America’s Promise foundation inspired her to pursue writing which you can see below. May she rest in peace.