OHIO (WJW) – Ohio Congresswoman Mary Rose Oakar, who was the first democratic woman elected to Congress from Ohio, has died.

According to a statement from Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) on Sunday, Oakar served eight terms from 1977 to 1993. She passed away at the age of 85 on Saturday.

“We were all blessed to know Mary Rose Oakar — a highly gifted, indefatigable, extraordinary woman of deep faith. Mary Rose was elected to Congress from inside the working class of people. She exhibited raw courage, loyalty, perseverance, high learning, precious humor, and stellar insight into human nature. Her hearty laugh elevated people’s spirits. She suffered no fools,” the statement said. “She not only stood her ground but made her own ground — to serve senior citizens, housing, pay equity, and be

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