Colleagues remembered state Sen. Jean Breaux Thursday as a passionate advocate for her district that included parts of northeast Indianapolis and Marion County.
Breaux, 65, died from an unspecified illness after missing the recent legislative session.
She first joined the Senate in 2006 and served as ranking minority member on the agriculture, health and provider services and natural resources committees. She was also assistant Democratic leader from 2012 to 2020.
On Monday, Breaux released a final statement:
“After a hard-fought battle with my health, the time has come for me to focus on enjoying the time I have left surrounded by my loved ones,” the statement said.
“She was sweet and very caring by nature, but she did not put up with anything,” said state Sen. Rodney Pol, D-Chesterton, who served with Breaux.
Pol said she taught him lessons he still remembers. “The biggest one is speak only when you’re supposed to be speaking.”
He said he responded on Breaux’s behalf at a conference committee session when Breaux was late and was quickly reprimanded when she arrived.
“It taught me a lesson,” Pol said. “She was a voice to be respected,” Pol said
Senate Democratic Leader Greg Taylor said Breaux’s absence will be significant.
“The loss of State Senator Jean Breaux will be profoundly felt by the countless lives she touched, and we join so many in mourning the loss of her incredible life,” Taylor said.
Breaux and former state Sen. Earline Rogers, of Gary, were among a handful of Black women lawmakers. Recently, Andrea Hunley joined the Senate and is now its lone Black woman member.
Senate Republican leader Rodric Bray said Breaux will be missed.
“She has long been a fierce advocate for her district and always a lovely colleague with whom I truly enjoyed working,” Bray said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones during this difficult time.”
Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb issued condolences Wednesday evening.
“Her passion for representing and helping her constituents, including serving on the Commission on Improving the Status of Children in Indiana and her commitment to public health, was a model and joy to be around,” he said in a statement.
She is survived by her mother, former state Sen. Billie Breaux.
Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune. The Association Press contributed to this report.
