Fairfax NAACP President Michelle Leete, right, at a vigil for Timothy Johnson in April 2023. Johnson was shot dead by Fairfax County police. Leete grips the hand of Johnson’s mother, Melissa. Leete died unexpectedly last week. Photo by Mercia Hobson.
Michelle LeeteThe Fairfax County NAACP branch announced the sudden passing of its president, Michelle Leete, last weekend. “The esteemed president and unwavering advocate for civil rights departed this world over the weekend, leaving a void in the hearts of those she served alongside and a legacy of tireless dedication to justice, equality, and community empowerment,” the Fairfax County NAACP said. “The Fairfax County NAACP branch family is grieving this significant loss, and we extend our deepest condolences to President Leete’s family, loved ones, colleagues, and the entire community she served so passionately.”
Leete was an active NAACP Fairfax County branch member and a member of its Executive Committee since 2013, President Leete served in many capacities, including Treasurer and Vice President, before being elected President for the 2023-2024 term.
"She was an unwavering leader in the fight for social justice and police reform, and a wonderful human being,” said Diane Burkley Alejandro of ACLU People Power Fairfax. “Michelle will be sorely missed."
President Michelle Leete may be gone, but her indomitable spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she inspired and served, said the NAACP statement.
Details regarding memorial arrangements and community gatherings were not available on Tuesday when the Connection went to press.