– Trailblazing former Missouri U.S. Sen. Jean Carnahan dies
– Missouri U.S. Sen. Jean Carnahan passes away at 90.
Former Missouri U.S. Senator Jean Carnahan Passes Away at 90
Former Missouri U.S. Senator Jean Carnahan, the state’s first woman to serve in the Senate and the widow of the late Gov. Mel Carnahan, has passed away at the age of 90. Her family released a statement saying, “Mom passed peacefully after a long and rich life. She was a fearless trailblazer, brilliant, creative, compassionate, and dedicated to her family and fellow Missourians.”
A Life of Service and Dedication
Jean Carnahan was known for her conciliatory approach to politics, expressing her concerns about the rising political divisiveness in the country. She was a prominent figure in one of Missouri’s best-known Democratic families. Her son, Russ Carnahan, and daughter, Robin Carnahan, have also made significant contributions to Missouri politics.
After leaving office in 2002, Jean Carnahan resided mostly in Clayton, Missouri. She was an accomplished author, having written several books throughout her life.
A Tragic Loss and a Historic Senate Victory
Jean Carnahan’s life took a tragic turn on October 16, 2000, when her husband, then-Gov. Mel Carnahan, was killed in a plane crash while campaigning for a Senate seat. The plane crash also claimed the lives of the Carnahans’ eldest son, Randy, and the governor’s top aide, Chris Sifford.
Following the crash, then-Lt. Gov. Roger Wilson appointed Jean Carnahan to her late husband’s Senate post if he were to win posthumously. Mel Carnahan’s name remained on the ballot, and he became the nation’s only Senate candidate to win a seat after his death.
Championing Important Issues
During her two-year Senate appointment, Jean Carnahan focused on improving public education, supporting Social Security, and advocating for prescription drug benefits in Medicare. She also fought for campaign finance reform, abortion rights, and gun restrictions.
While in Washington, she carved her own bipartisan path while staying true to her late husband’s political vision.
A Life of Resilience and Reflection
Jean Carnahan faced various challenges and tragedies throughout her life. In 2002, she narrowly lost a bid for the remaining four years of her late husband’s Senate term to Republican Jim Talent.
In her book, “Don’t Let the Fire Go Out,” she reflected on her life and the importance of squandering oneself for a good and godly purpose.
A Legacy and Family
Jean Carnahan was born in Washington D.C. and met her future husband, Mel Carnahan, in high school. They married in 1954 and moved to Missouri, where Mel Carnahan became an influential lawyer and politician. Together, they had four children.
She is survived by her children Russ, Robin, and Tom, as well as several grandchildren.
A Fond Farewell
Jean Carnahan passed away at the BJC Hospice-Evelyn’s House in suburban St. Louis. A private family service will be held at Carson Hill Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest next to her husband and son. A public celebration of her life will also take place in St. Louis.
Jean Carnahan leaves behind a legacy of dedication, resilience, and a commitment to public service that will be remembered by all those whose lives she touched.
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– Trailblazing former Missouri U.S. Sen. Jean Carnahan dies at
– Jean Carnahan, former Missouri U.S. Sen., passes away at 90.
