Former Rep. Mia Love, First Black Republican Woman in Congress, Passes Away at 49

Former U.S. Representative Mia Love of Utah, the first black Republican woman elected to Congress, died on Sunday at the age of 49 after a battle with brain cancer, her family announced.

Love, the daughter of Haitian immigrants, passed away surrounded by her loved ones at her home. “With grateful hearts filled to overflowing for the profound influence of Mia on our lives, we want you to know that she passed away peacefully today,” the family stated in a heartfelt message on X. “She was in her home surrounded by family.”

“In the midst of a celebration of her life and an avalanche of happy memories, Mia quietly slipped the bands of mortality and, as her words and vision always did, soared heavenward,” the family continued.

“We are thankful for the many good wishes, prayers and condolences. We are taking some time as a family and will provide information about funeral services and a public celebration of her life in the days to come.”

The family’s statement also reflected on Love’s legacy: “During a celebration of her life and an avalanche of happy memories, Mia quietly slipped the bands of mortality and, as her words and vision always did, soared heavenward.”

They expressed their gratitude for the support and condolences received from the public and mentioned that details regarding her funeral services and a public celebration of her life will be announced soon.

Earlier this month, Love’s daughter revealed that the former congresswoman’s cancer was no longer responding to treatment. Mia Love had served as a representative from 2015 to 2019, making significant contributions to U.S. politics and leaving behind a lasting legacy as a pioneer for minorities in government.