Virginia leaders offer condolences after death of Congressman Gerry Connolly

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia leaders have issued their condolences following the death of Congressman Gerry Connolly (VA-11).

8News has compiled statements from several Virginia leaders after the announcement of Connolly's death by his family on Wednesday, May 21.

Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03)

“It was with immense sadness that I learned of Gerry’s passing. He was a relentless advocate for his constituents and a true public servant who loved America, the Commonwealth of Virginia and his hometown of Fairfax. I will miss our friendship and his infectious energy and humor. This is a true loss for Virginia and our entire nation.  I am praying for his family, his staff and his other loved ones at this time.”

U.S. Senator Tim Kaine

“My friend Gerry Connolly was a one of a kind public servant who never shied away from fighting for Northern Virginia and our country. I will miss his voice on the many issues that were lucky to benefit from his steadfast leadership, from delivering the congressional oversight the American people deserve and protecting NATO, to standing up for the many federal workers who call Virginia home and securing once-in-a-generation transportation infrastructure investments. His legacy will live on through all that he accomplished throughout his decades of public service and the countless people he inspired along the way. My heart is very heavy and I am lifting up Smitty, Caitlin, and all who knew and loved Gerry in prayer during this difficult time.”

Congressman Eugene Vindman (VA-07)

“Cindy and I are deeply saddened to hear the news that Gerry has passed. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and staff."

"Gerry was a fighter like none other — whether it was championing Northern Virginia’s families to his recent fight with cancer, there was no one tougher than Gerry. I had the honor of building a friendship with Gerry over the last five years. Gerry supported me and my family when I was his constituent standing up for the Constitution, and we will never forget the kindness and care he showed us. I looked up to him and valued his wisdom on everything from legislating to family. I know his legacy will always challenge me and my colleagues to put our constituents first, never back down from a fight, and stand up in the name of democracy. I thank him for his years of service. May your memory be a blessing, my friend.”

Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Don Scott

“It’s rare to find someone so deeply committed to public service and even rarer to witness the kind of lasting, visible impact Congressman Gerry Connolly made on his community, his Commonwealth, and his country. From transforming Northern Virginia’s transportation infrastructure – making transit more accessible for all – to shaping America’s role on the global stage, Gerry’s legacy reaches from local neighborhoods to the halls of Congress and across the world. He made his way to the top ranks of Congress not only because of his intelligence and unmatched work ethic, but because people trusted him, believed in him, and, above all, loved him."

“It is with profound sadness that I mourn the passing of one of Virginia’s most dedicated public servants. Mellanda and I extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife and the entire Connolly family."

U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA)

“I am heartbroken over the loss of my dear friend Gerry Connolly."

“I’ve known Gerry for more than 35 years. To me, he exemplified the very best of public service. Just this past Sunday, I was honored to join his wife Smitty, daughter Caitlin, and the Fairfax community in celebrating his decades of service. While Gerry couldn’t be there in person, his presence was felt throughout the room. He was there in spirit, as he always is when people come together in the name of service and progress."

“Gerry was a fighter. His sharp mind, boundless energy, and deep commitment to the people of Northern Virginia made him a force to be reckoned with, whether on the Fairfax Board of Supervisors or in Congress. He met every challenge with tenacity and purpose, including his final battle with cancer, which he faced with courage, grace, and quiet dignity."

“Today, my thoughts are with Smitty, Caitlin, and all who loved him. We have lost a giant in Virginia public life, and he will be deeply missed.”

Delegate Dan Helmer (D-Fairfax)

“The impact of Congressman Connolly’s legacy on Virginia will be felt for decades to come. For the last thirty years, he has tirelessly served Northern Virginia, fighting for working families and a more just world."

"My prayers go out to Congressman Connolly’s entire family. May his memory be a blessing - it certainly will be for myself, for Karen, and our children."

"The Capitol and Virginia are lesser today without Congressman Connolly’s encyclopedic knowledge, his wit, and his love of country. He will be incredibly missed.”

Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04)

"Gerry put his faith in action as a servant leader. He loved his neighbors and this fragile government by, of and for the people. He passionately provided a voice for the voiceless as he sought to ease any suffering he saw. No matter the challenges facing him or his constituents, he never lost his sense of humor or the twinkle of joy in his eyes."

"Throughout my time in elected office, Gerry has been a defining and passionate voice in Virginia politics. I am grateful to have been able to call him a friend, mentor, and colleague. I will always treasure our talks on the House floor and will miss him greatly."

"He has earned his rest. Godspeed, Gerry."