Cecile Richards, an influential figure in the women’s rights movement and former head of Planned Parenthood, died of brain cancer at the age of 67.

Richards was a major force in Texas and national politics. Like her mother, former governor Ann Richards, Cecile spent most of her life rallying for progressive causes. Richards was a labor organizer, a staffer to Representative Nancy Pelosi, and then president of Planned Parenthood from 2006 to 2018.

Cecile Richards had three children whose lives were greatly influenced by a person who was dedicated to women's reproductive rights.

As we mourn the loss of activist, organizer, and former president of Planned Parenthood, Cecile Richards, I offer words of wisdom she shared with me in our interviews over the years.

I’ve known Cecile for years through our work in the reproductive rights space. Today, I remember my friend as a fierce and loving advocate for change.

Cecile Richards died Monday after battling an aggressive form of brain cancer, her family said in a statement.

Cecile Richards, a national leader for women’s rights who led Planned Parenthood for 12 tumultuous years, has died

The longtime advocate for women’s rights died at age 67 Cecile Richards, who served as president of the women’s health organization Planned Parenthood from 2006 to 2018, died on Monday, Jan. 20, her family confirmed to PEOPLE.