EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — Melody Currey, a former state commissioner, member of the Connecticut House of Representatives and mayor of East Hartford who “touched the lives of so many,” has died. She was 71.
The Democrat's death was confirmed Monday by current East Hartford Mayor Mike Walsh in a Facebook post. He called Currey a wonderful boss, a great mentor and dear friend.
“She was a political icon who touched the lives of so many in such a positive way,” he wrote. He said she had a “tremendous impact” on her community and will be “sorely missed.”
Currey served in the Connecticut House of Representatives from 1993 to 2006, rising to deputy majority leader and deputy speaker during her tenure. She served as mayor of East Hartford from 2006 to 2010 before being tapped as commissioner of several state agencies, including the Departments of Motor Vehicles, Agriculture and Administrative Services.
She is survived by her husband, Don, the former East Hartford treasurer, as well as their two sons and a daughter.
“Melody Currey was a powerhouse of an advocate on behalf of the people of East Hartford and the entire state of Connecticut. Whether it be through her elected roles as state representative and mayor, or as commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Administrative Services," said Gov. Ned Lamont in a statement.
He lauded her work on enacting policy improvements for state government.
"Her passing is a significant loss for our state," he said. I send my deepest condolences to her family.”
Currey's cause of death was not immediately clear.
Currey's son Jeff is currently the state representative. She is one of five women from East Hartford depicted in a mural recently painted on the Founders Bridge overpass.
“Melody Currey devoted her life to public service. She lived that mission as a legislative aide, state representative, majority leader, mayor, and commissioner. No one knew more about the legislative process and state government than Melody," said Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, who called Currey a "true trailblazer" for women in politics and public service. "Melody’s memory will live on through her those who loved her most and continue the Currey legacy of public service. I will miss her compassion, wealth of knowledge, grace, and good humor.”
"Melody Currey committed her life to serving others including my family and I am heartbroken for the Currey family. Melody has been mentor and friend throughout my life," House Majority Leader Jason Rojas said. "Melody was a trailblazer for so many – many of whom she worked tirelessly to help guide into their current roles herself, like me.
Doug Stewart is a digital content producer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dstewart@fox61.com.
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