Ex-State Sen. Mary Daugherty Abrams From Meriden Dies, Mourned

MERIDEN, CT — The community is mourning the death of former state Senator Mary Daugherty Abrams.

The Record-Journal reported Abrams, who also was a special education teacher and school administrator, died after a three-year battle with glioblastoma.

Abrams served as a Democrat representing the 13th Senatorial District, including Cheshire, Meriden, Middlefield and Middletown.

State Sen. Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) said Abrams was “one of the finest people I have ever known.”

“She was a ball of sunshine and a real force for good,” Lesser said in a statement. “She was tough, but joyful - a happy warrior. We worked closely representing Middletown together, on health care reform and on a great many issues. She was a friend and close ally. The Senate was at its very best with her around, and I will miss her greatly. My deepest condolences to her husband Jim, her children and grandchildren, and all who knew and loved her.”

State Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Duff (D-Norwalk) released the following joint statement on Abrams’ death:

“It is with the greatest sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved friend and former Senate colleague, Mary Daugherty Abrams. Mary was a tireless advocate, a dedicated public servant, and a compassionate leader whose work profoundly touched the lives of so many across Connecticut. She was wise, kind, generous, and principled, with a lively intelligence and ready wit, always willing to take on the challenge at hand without drama or posturing.

“Her passion for education, health care, and the well-being of our communities defined her time in the State Senate. Mary approached every issue with integrity, a strong moral compass, and an unwavering commitment to the people she served.

“Beyond her legislative accomplishments, Mary’s decades as an educator left a lasting impression on so many. She was a loving and dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother.

“On behalf of the Senate Democratic Caucus, we extend our deepest condolences to her husband, Jim, two children, Nick and Madeline, four grandchildren, friends, and all who are mourning this profoundly painful loss. We cherished our friend Mary and will always miss her.”