Richland 1 school trustee Barbara Scott passed away Tuesday.

Board chairman Jamie Devine issued a statement Tuesday night reading, in part: “Mrs. Scott’s presence on the Board and her commitment to ensuring that all Richland One students receive a high-quality education will be greatly missed. The entire Richland One family extends its heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Scott’s family, friends and other loved ones.”

Scott came back from political defeat to win a seat on the school board in 2008. Before that, she had managed the clerk of court’s office for 24 years, 1984-2008.

Her death was announced at both Richland County Council and Columbia City Council meetings Tuesday evening.

A few months ago, Scott, 75, fell at her home and broke a hip and wrist, requiring surgery and weeks of physical therapy.

She was recently sworn in to a new term of office, having said during her re-election bid that she was proud of the district’s work with impoverished children.

Dawn Hinshaw