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    • Former Ohio House Speaker Jo Ann Davidson has died at age 97
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    Former Ohio House Speaker Jo Ann Davidson has died at age 97

    Online Niel Posted on

    Ohio’s first woman speaker of the House, Jo Ann Davidson, has died at age 97 after decades of public service.

    Davidson served in the Ohio House of Representatives from 1980 to 2001. Before being elected Speaker of the House in 1995, she served as Minority Leader, Minority Whip, and Assistant Minority Whip.

    Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine called Davidson a true friend who will be missed.

    “Fran and I are saddened to learn of the passing of our dear friend Jo Ann Davidson. Jo Ann dedicated her life to public service and the people of Ohio, a model public servant who was full of wit, intelligence, class and skill. She was a trailblazer in the truest sense, beginning her career on the Reynoldsburg City Council in the 1960s and making history in 1995 as the first female speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives.

    For decades, Jo Ann has been committed to making a difference in people’s lives and has been particularly passionate about inspiring other women to do the same. Through the Jo Ann Davidson Leadership Institute, she has personally mentored nearly 500 of Ohio’s rising Republican women in basic leadership skills, giving many the confidence to run for and succeed in public office.

    Although we mourn Jo Ann’s passing, Fran and I take comfort in knowing that she will live on through those she mentored and her legacy will be remembered by all who pass by her portrait on the wall of the Chamber Chamber of the Ohio Statehouse. We send our sincere condolences to her family,” DeWine said.

    Ohio House Speaker Jason Stephens said he was saddened to learn of her death.

    “As a true trailblazer, Speaker Davidson’s legacy is one of strength, grace and servant leadership. She has fostered a culture of mentoring that has changed the lives of many for the better. My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Jo Ann Davidson. Stephens said.

    Former Ohio Speaker Cliff Rosenberger issued the following statement:

    “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend, President Jo Ann Davidson, a trailblazer and dedicated public servant who dedicated her life to the betterment of Ohio City. As the first female Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives, she broke barriers not only for women in leadership, but also for minorities like myself. Her commitment to her constituents and passion for public service was unmatched. Jo Ann’s legacy will continue to inspire us all as we strive to honor her vision for a stronger Ohio. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. Thank God, Madam Speaker.”

    Funeral arrangements had not been announced as of Friday afternoon.

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