NBC10 reporter Edie Huggins, 72, dies July 29, 2008

Edie Huggins, the first African-American female anchor in the Philadelphia area, has died after a “lengthy illness,” NBC10 is reporting.

The anchor and reporter was diagnosed with terminal cancer in the past year. Known as “Ms. Edie” among her coworkers, Huggins was a pioneer in the Philadelphia area as the host of many magazine news shows and segments like “Huggins’ Heroes,” which profiled people who faced challenges with courage and determination.

Still listed on NBC10′s list of on-air talent, Huggins continued reporting for Channel 10 well after retirement age. She has marked 42 years of work at the station.

NBC10 donated most of the first block of its 6 p.m. newscast Tuesday to coverage and reaction of Huggins’ death.

Memorial services will be held Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Bright Hope Baptist Church at 12th Street and Cecil B. Moore Avenue. The service begin at 7 p.m. and are open to the public.