L. Helen Rankin, a trailblazing American politician and the first African American woman to serve in the Ohio House of Representatives, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, at the age of 89 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her remarkable life was dedicated to public service, advocating tirelessly for the rights and well-being of women, children, and underserved communities across the state. Rankin's legacy is etched in the legislative landscape of Ohio, where her persistent efforts led to significant advancements in healthcare and social equity.

Born on September 12, 1936, in Alabama, Helen Rankin's journey brought her to Cincinnati in 1954 following her high school graduation. She briefly attended the University of Cincinnati and a local business college, laying a strong foundation for her future endeavors. Prior to her historic career in the Ohio legislature, she worked dedicatedly as an intake supervisor. It was through her marriage to James W. Rankin, a state representative, that her interest in politics deepened. She served as an informal advisor and handled communications for her husband, while together they raised a loving family that would grow to include three children and seven grandchildren.

In a pivotal moment in 1978, following the unexpected passing of her husband, L. Helen Rankin was appointed to fill his seat in the Ohio House of Representatives. This appointment marked the beginning of a distinguished sixteen-year career in the state legislature, where she would go on to win seven re-election campaigns. Representing the 25th and later the 30th Ohio House districts, she earned a reputation as a quiet yet profoundly effective legislator who fought relentlessly for her constituents.

Throughout her tenure, Rankin was a fierce champion for women's health and vulnerable populations. She notably introduced legislation requiring insurance coverage for mammography and cytologic (Pap) screenings for women over the age of 40. Despite facing initial opposition from insurance companies, her unwavering commitment saw the bill introduced four times before it was finally signed into law by Governor George Voinovich on April 1, 1992. Beyond healthcare, she was a vocal advocate for affordable housing, education, and the continuation of Medicaid reimbursement for outpatient health facilities. Her leadership as Chair of the Human Resources Committee for 12 years underscored her dedication, playing a crucial role in ensuring support for the blind, communicatively impaired, and youth with developmental needs.

Rankin's commitment to her community extended far beyond her time in office. Following her retirement in 1994, she served as Project Co-Chair for the Shalom Habitat for Humanity Project, helping to build 17 homes in Cincinnati's Walnut Hills neighborhood. She also served on the board of the Emanuel Community Center and remained deeply active in her faith at New Vision United Methodist Church, where she held leadership roles including President of the United Methodist Women and Senior Ministry. Her civic engagement included work with the Hamilton County Women's Democratic Club, the National Council of State Legislators, and the Planned Parenthood Association of Cincinnati Board.

Her pioneering contributions have been widely recognized and celebrated. In February 2013, the Cincinnati City Council honored her as a prominent local African American, celebrating her role in breaking barriers for future generations. Following her passing, the Ohio House of Representatives adopted House Resolution 369 on March 25, 2026, to honor her memory and legislative contributions, while State Representative Juanita O. Brent issued a formal statement mourning her loss and celebrating her trailblazing legacy. To ensure her enduring impact is never forgotten, an Ohio Historical Marker application has been submitted to memorialize Helen and her husband James W. Rankin in Cincinnati. L. Helen Rankin's life was a testament to her guiding belief in purposeful planning, prayerful preparation, hopeful proceeding, and persistent pursuit of justice.