Longtime Orange County public servant Jamezetta Bedford passed away on Sunday, June 21.
Bedford served as an Orange County commissioner for eight years and was the board chair for three years from 2022 to 2024. Before serving on the Orange County Board of Commissioners, Bedford served on the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education.
Other WRAL Top Stories
Board of County Commissioners Chair Jean Hamilton said Bedford was "deeply committed to ensuring that every resident had opportunities to thrive, and she worked diligently to strengthen our schools, expand behavioral health resources and build a brighter future for Orange County.
"Even in recent months, she remained focused on seeing critical projects move forward for the benefit of future generations," Hamilton said. "Her wisdom, dedication and steady leadership will be profoundly missed."
Orange County Manager Travis Myren said Bedford "devoted her life to serving others and that Orange County is stronger because of her leadership.”
"She brought extraordinary thoughtfulness, professionalism and care to every issue before the Board, whether it involved our schools, public health, affordable housing or behavioral health services," Myren said.
"We mourn her loss and extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and all who had the privilege of serving alongside her."