August 20, 2008: Statement on the Passing of Stephanie Tubbs Jones

It is difficult to write this notice because this announcement seems not possible. Stephanie's energy, drive, and enthusiasm accompanied her in all her life's pursuits. As the first African American woman to represent Ohio in the U.S. House of Representatives, she made history every day. Her boundless spirit and involvements were exceptional--as a devoted spouse, mother of Mervyn, with family, church and sorority, an exceptional lawyer, and as a Congresswoman with unending calls upon her time. Her smile and supportive manner were shared with all of us, time and again. She gave almost every ounce of her strength to bettering the condition and politics of our nation, and her lifelong home of the City of Cleveland.

We wish to extend deepest sympathy to her beloved son, Mervyn, for whom she lived, her loving extended family, her church family, and her countless friends and colleagues.

Please know that our thoughts and our prayers go out to Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs-Jones, her family, her staff and her constituents at this most difficult time.