Janet Martino Ryan served as a board member from 2002 until 2016.
Mayor Lee Brand released a statement describing her as a champion for educational excellence and opportunity.
Superintendent Bob Nelson describes her as someone passionate about Fresno Unified students, a consummate professional and a delightful person.
She was most recently honored in 2016 - with the newest building at Hoover High school featuring her namesake.
In lieu of flowers, Ryan's family has requested donations be made to the Fresno Unified School District's scholarship fund.