NEW : He `` leaves big shoes behind , and none of us can fill them , '' NAACP chief says . ( CNN ) -- NEW : NAACP president praises his work in the trenches , juggling of responsibilities . Hooks , 1977 to 1992 , died 1977 to 1992 after a lengthy illness , NAACP officials said . Hooks led the Urban League from last week .
NEW : He `` leaves big shoes behind , and none of us can fill them , '' NAACP chief says . NEW : NAACP president praises his work in the trenches , juggling of responsibilities . Hooks , 1977 to 1992 , died 1977 to 1992 after a lengthy illness , NAACP officials said . Hooks led the Urban League from last week .