Mary Murphy, longest-serving woman in Minnesota House history, dies after suffering stroke
Pictured former state Rep. Mary Murphy. (Photo courtesy of the Minnesota House of Representatives)
(FOX 9) - Former DFL state Rep. Mary Murphy died in hospice care on Christmas Day after recently suffering a stroke.
The 85-year-old former lawmaker suffered a stroke last week, which was followed by a series of complications that led to her being placed in hospice care. Murphy ultimately died on Wednesday, according to Facebook posts by Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman.
Who is former Rep. Mary Murphy?
Dig deeper: Murphy was born in Duluth, Minnesota, and worked as a history teacher when she was first elected to the Minnesota House in 1976. She remained in office until she lost her seat by 33 votes in the 2022 election.
She was the longest-serving woman in the Minnesota House, and the second-longest serving legislator, behind Rep. Lyndon Carlson.
During her time in office, she served on various committees, including the Judiciary Finance Committee, Ethics Committee and Energy Committee. She was passionate about issues relating to criminal justice reform, health care, women’s rights and workers’ rights.
Minnesota leaders react
What they’re saying: Sen. Amy Klobuchar posted on Facebook about Murphy’s passing saying, "We lost long time northern Minnesota former legislator Mary Murphy today. She was a strong advocate and so often the only woman at the table in northern MN. Now that’s changed but Mary was in so many ways ahead of her time! We will miss her."
Sen. Tina Smith wrote on X, "I counted her a friend and advisor for many years, with her strong opinions, curly white hair and tomato red coat. We will miss her."
Gov. Tim Walz shared his condolences in a post on X, saying, "Saddened to hear about the passing of Rep. Mary Murphy, the longest serving woman in the Minnesota legislature and a true champion for the Northland. Gwen and I are sending our love to her family."
Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman shared on Facebook, "She [Murphy] was a wonderful state representative and human being. So many people will miss her, and remember her and her accomplishments fondly."
Rep. Jay Xiong shared a statement on social media, saying in part, "Mary was a remarkable legislator and a compassionate friend and mentor to many. Her unwavering commitment to her community and tireless advocacy for those in need have left an indelible mark on our state. Mary's legacy will continue to inspire us all as we strive to uphold the values she championed. We have lost a giant, and she will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time."
What's next: Details about Murphy’s funeral service have not yet been released.