Karen Hudson-Samuels’ career in broadcast journalism spanned over four decades in Detroit.

After making her name at WGPR-TV as an anchor, producer and news director, the historian and journalist used her vision to create one of the biggest accomplishments of her lifetime.

To preserve the history of the country’s first black-owned and operated television station, WGPR, Samuels worked tirelessly to bring the William V. Banks broadcast museum to life.

“When this museum got into the national registry she was very, very proud,” her husband, Cliff Samuels said.

The 68-year-old’s sudden death leaves the industry reciting her legacy and questioning why she had to go so soon.

The Detroit media icon was found dead at her home by her husband last Tuesday, just one day after taking the COVID-19 vaccine.