Lisa Young Alston, daughter of civil rights leader Andrew Young, dies at 67

March 16th, 2025

Atlanta civil rights leader Andrew Young and his family watch television for returns from a primary election, Wednesday, Sept. 9, 1970 in Atlanta. Seated clockwise are daughters, Paula, Lynn and Lisa, and Mrs. Young. (AP Photo)

Lisa Young Alston, the daughter of Civil Rights leader and former U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young, died Friday at the age of 67. The cause of death has yet to be announced by the family.

A Howard University graduate, Young Alston worked as a program associate with Inspiredu Atlanta, a Georgia-based non-profit focused on digital literacy and access, prior to her death. She had also previously served as a board member for Connecting for Good and The Bridge Home for Children, both based in Kansas City, Missouri.

“The Young and Alston families deeply appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love and support from across the community as we deal with the news of the loss of our beloved Lisa,” said the family in a statement addressed to the public.

“We ask that the privacy of our family be respected as we deal with the loss of our loved one.”

Atlanta leaders, including Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Dr. Valarie Montgemry Rice, president of the Morehouse School of Medicine, expressed their admiration for Young Alston’s legacy on Saturday.

“Lisa will be remembered for her warmth, her strength, and the kindness she extended to everyone she encountered. As we honor her memory, let us come together to offer support, compassion, and prayers to the Young family,” said Dickens in a statement released Saturday.

“Today, we gather with heavy hearts as we mourn the passing of Lisa Young Alston … her life was a testament to compassion, strength and dedication to her community, ” said Rice, referring to Young Alston as a “remarkable individual.”

“On behalf of our institution, I extend our deepest condolences to Ambassador Young and his family during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the love and support of those around them, and may her legacy continue to inspire us all.”

The death comes less than a week after Young celebrated his 93rd birthday on March 12. Service plans are expected to be announced next week.