Former Columbia Public Schools leader Eliot Battle dies

Columbia Public School officials confirmed longtime educator Dr. Eliot Battle has died.

Officials say he died from injuries he received in a car crash. Columbia police say the accident happened June 7. The accident was a one vehicle crash at Rollins Road and Eastlake Drive.

A witness told police he saw the car travel westbound on Rollins and went off the road to the south side of Rollins.

Dr. Battle was recently at the dedication for the Muriel Battle High School in Columbia.

He and his wife Muriel worked in the Columbia School District for four decades.

Dr. Battle worked as a guidance counselor, assistant principal and director of guidance. He was also Hickman High School’s first black faculty member.

Columbia officials released the following statement:

“Late last night, Columbia Public Schools received word that Eliot Battle passed away. Dr. Battle was surrounded by friends and family when he passed away. He had sustained injuries in a car accident on Friday and had been hospitalized since the accident.

The Columbia Public Schools school-community is deeply saddened by the loss of Dr. Battle. We were honored to have him participate in the dedication of Muriel Williams Battle High School just 10 days ago. He and his wife created a legacy in our community that we were honored and grateful to be able to celebrate. Dr. Battle played a pivotal role as an educational leader in Columbia Public Schools. His presence in our community will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends during this difficult time.

Missouri United Methodist Church will be working with the Battle family to determine celebration of life services for Dr. Battle.”