Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly dies nearly month after announcing plans to step down
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) — Rep. Gerald 'Gerry' Connolly (D-Va.) has died less than a month after announcing plans to step down from his position for health reasons. He was 75.
Connolly to step out of top Democratic spot on Oversight panel, citing health
Connolly's family released a statement Wednesday morning following his death.
'It is with immense sadness that we share that our devoted and loving father, husband, brother, friend, and public servant, Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, passed away peacefully at his home this morning surrounded by family,' the letter reads in part.
The former Democrat and Virginia representative announced back on April 28 that he planned to step down from public service following the conclusion of his term in Congress, citing a return of esophageal cancer he's been battling since late last year.
Connolly represented part of Northern Virginia.
'I cannot imagine the House without Gerry': Lawmakers react after Virginia Rep. Connolly says he wont seek reelection, citing health
The statement from his family commemorated his time served in a government office.
'Gerry lived his life to give back to others and make our community better,' it reads in part. 'He looked out for the disadvantaged and voiceless. He always stood up for what is right and just.'
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