Estella B. Diggs, a former state assemblywoman who represented the Morrisania section in the Bronx, has died. She would have been 97 years old on April 21.
Mrs. Diggs, a native of St. Louis, Missouri, served in the NY State Assembly, 1973-1980. She was ousted after a bitter Democratic primary battle with Gloria Davis. She retired from politics and was active in her church.
In November 2011, Estella Diggs Park was dedicated in her honor.
A viewing service for the Hon. Estella B. Diggs will be held on Wednesday, April 24, 6-8pm at the OLV/St. Augustine’s Catholic Church located at East 171st Street and Webster Avenue in the Bronx. Funeral services follow on Thursday, April 25th at 10am; also at St. Augustine’s Church.
Her citation in Who’s Who in African American Politics is excerpted below:
Personal: Born Apr 21, 1916, St Louis, MO; divorced; children: Edward A, Lawrence C & Joyce D. Educ: NY Inst Dietetics, grad; Pace College; CCNY; NY University; Adult Continuing Ed Queens College. Career: NY State, committee woman; real estate dealer; freelance writer; career counselor; catering business owner; State NY, legislator, assemblywoman, 1973-80. Orgs: Chmn, Neighborhood Girl Scouts; Rosary Society, St Augustines Roman Catholic Church; chmn, March Dimes; founder & chmn Bronx Citizens Committee.
