Norwich — The Board of Education started Tuesday's meeting with a moment of silence in memory of Cora Lee Boulware, a longtime former board member who died Saturday.

Boulware, 79, a Democrat, served on the school board from 2001 through 2015, when she was defeated in her bid for re-election when Republicans swept into office in Norwich.

Boulware also was a lifetime member of the NAACP and was active in the Norwich branch, attending many functions and issues forums, including last week's forum to discuss police-community relations in Norwich.

During her tenure on the board, Boulware often raised emotional issues, such as fairness in budget deliberations, concern for the welfare of Norwich children and disdain for political posturing.

“Cora was one of the kindest and (most) honest people I have known,” Norwich Superintendent Abby Dolliver said. “She had a deep commitment and love for her community and served as a wonderful voice for our students while on the Board of Education for many years. She never knew the depth of the special impact she had on those she knew.”

— Claire Bessette