LCCAA mourns the loss of its board chairman, Gerald Pippens, who died unexpectedly Feb. 23.

Pippens had served as board chair since 2019. He joined the board in 2010. He had a long career with the UAW Local 2000.

As a board member, Pippens participated in multiple leadership changes including the transition to current CEO Shauna Matelski, Ed.D. from long-time CEO Jackie Boehnlein. He served with multiple board members from throughout the county, approved budgets, navigated federal and state funding issues, union negotiations and much more.

“Gerald was a dedicated leader and a dependable board member,” Matelski said. “His influence will continue to be felt for years to come. His steadfast compassion for our community will always be remembered here at LCCAA. His support and kindness will always stay with me.”

Services were held March 8 with arrangements in care of Brown Robinson Funeral Home. Click here for more information.

“Gerald was a giant. He always pushed us to be better, focus on our work and continually raise the bar,” said LCCAA Board Vice Chair Vasyl Rabosyuk. “His leadership and example will be sorely missed but not forgotten.”

Rabosyuk will serve as acting chair until the board can hold officer elections, Matelski said.

Pippens was remembered fondly by many board members and LCCAA staff as a reliable colleague and friend.

“Gerald was a tremendous leader for the board and an even better person,” said former board member Joe Bott.

Past Treasurer Joe Falbo agreed: “Gerald was always a steady hand at the helm. Well thought out and calculated in his words and decision making, he was dedicated to the agency and focused on the development and growth of the board.”

Board Member Elizabeth Meadows said Pippens led by example.

“He attended committee meetings, showed up at agency locations, kept himself fully informed about agency operations,” she said. “We were so fortunate to have him as our chairman.”

Rochelle Corn remembered Pippens for the guidance he gave her as she joined the board and became a seasoned member herself.

“He was not only a leader and a source of constant encouragement to me, but he always made me feel that my thoughts and opinions mattered reminding me that I had something valuable to contribute,” she said. “His belief in the importance of community and in each of us as individuals was inspiring.”

Henry Patterson, who preceded Pippens as board chair remembered his keen insight, invaluable support and wisdom gained from his long tenure with the UAW.

“I fondly remember how he would often ask questions to which he already knew the answers,” Patterson said, “skillfully using this technique to advance important conversations.”

In addition to his years of service, Pippens will be remembered for his genuine thoughtfulness and humanity.

“Gerald was a family friend for nearly 50 years,” said Board Member Deborah Hughes. “He was the most compassionate, intelligent person. He will be greatly missed by all the lives he’s touched.”

“We deeply miss Gerald, whose wisdom, genuine care and kindness touched the lives of our staff and clients,” said Human Resources Director Carla Rodriguez. “He inspired us all with his warmth and compassion.”

“Gerald’s kindness and leadership will be deeply missed,” added Community Services Director Tosha Craighead.

Former Board Member Mike Szekely said there could not have been a more caring board member or chair.

“And he was a warm and caring person with a great disposition and great personality,” Szekely added. “God bless you, Gerald. You clearly belong in Heaven.”

“I am confident Gerald never met a stranger,” said Treasurer Eddie Henson. “Always bringing warmth, guidance, and confidence along with that indelible smile to every interaction. Gerald was a great person, mentor, and most importantly a friend. He will be missed, but never forgotten.” 

“I take comfort in remembering his wide smile and the twinkle in his eye as he arrived for our meetings,” Patterson said. “Our community has lost a great leader.”