Medgar Evers College Professor John Louis Flateau has died, his family announced on social media on Sunday.
Adele Flateau, the CUNY professor's sister, said the academic, political strategist and community activist died unexpectedly on December 30.
The sister said Flateau's wife Lorraine, sons and siblings were devastated as he was the third family member to pass within six months after their sister and brother-in-law.
"We know his loss will be felt deeply, far and wide," she said.
Flateau was a lifelong learner with impressive academic accomplishments and an impactful leader for the Brooklyn and New York communities, Medgar Evers College president Patricia Ramsey said through a statement.
Ramsey reflected on working alongside Flateau and the congratulatory email she sent him for being honored by the Vanguard Independent Democratic Association, in which he replied that he was "holding up the banner for Medgar."
"His dedication to this campus is unmatched, and our Medgar Evers College family is better because of his perspective on the world," Ramsey said. "I am blessed to have known him for the less than three years I have served as president, and I will miss his encouraging words and regular emails, keeping me abreast of local, state, and national matters."
Jumaane Williams, the city Public Advocate, noted how the professor shaped the lives of New Yorkers for the better.
"Dr. Flateau was a tremendous leader who uplifted and inspired his community, and his enormous contributions will have a lasting impact for many years," he said.
Adele Flateau said the funeral will be held at Bridge Street AWME Church in Brooklyn on January 10.
