The Sedgwick County Democratic Party announced Saturday morning that State Representative Gail Finney has died.
Finney represented District 84 of Wichita in the Kansas Statehouse for 13 years.
Democratic House Leader Tom Sawyer said in a statement Saturday, “Rep. Gail Finney was a shining example of a public servant. Her ongoing work to ensure her community’s proper representation in Topeka reflected an admirable commitment to her neighbors and community. Rep. Finney was a real fighter, having continued to serve in her official legislative capacity even while she was recovering from a major surgery. Her love for Wichita knew no bounds. I was honored to have served alongside her. It has been such a privilege.”
Republican Representative Stephen Owens wrote on social media, “[Finney] was an absolute sweetheart, full of kindness and compassion.”
Democratic Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers wrote, “Gail’s work in the Legislature made life better for Kansans. She was a fierce advocate and her kindness and love for others will not be forgotten.”
“This is a devastating loss for our community. She will forever be remembered for the sacrifice and service she gave to this State and the friendship she shared freely,” said Sedgwick County Commissioner Lacey Cruse.
And Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple wrote, “…Finney was champion of good policy, a fierce fighter on behalf of our community, and a role model for folks like myself who had the honor.”
Finney’s cause of death is not yet known, but she had been dealing with health issues and received a kidney replacement earlier this year.
