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    • Former Speaker of the US House of Representatives Jo Ann Davidson dies at the age of 97
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    Former Speaker of the US House of Representatives Jo Ann Davidson dies at the age of 97

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    The first woman to be elected Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives, Jo Ann Davidson, has died at the age of 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 Governor Mike DeWine called Davidson a true friend who will be missed.

    “Fran and I are saddened by 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 humor, intelligence, class and skill. She was a pioneer in the true sense of the word. She began her career on the Reynoldsburg City Council in the 1960s and made history in 1995 as Ohio’s first female Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives.

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

    While we mourn Jo Ann’s death, Fran and I take comfort in knowing that she will live on through those she mentored, and that her legacy will be remembered by all who walk past her portrait on the House Chamber wall at the Ohio Statehouse. We extend our sincere condolences to her family,” DeWine said.

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

    “A true trailblazer, Speaker Davidson’s legacy is one of strength, grace and servant leadership. She fostered a culture of mentorship that changed the lives of many for the better. I extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Jo Ann Davidson,” said Stephans.

    Former Ohio Chairman Cliff Rosenberger made the following statement:

    “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend, Chairman Jo Ann Davidson, a pioneer and dedicated public servant who dedicated her life to the betterment of Ohio. 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 dedication to her constituents and her passion for public service were unparalleled. 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. Godspeed, Madam Speaker.”

    No funeral arrangements had been announced as of Friday afternoon.

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