Former Gov. Rell Set An Example For All Public Servants: Camillo

GREENWICH, CT — First Selectman Fred Camillo has commented former Connecticut Gov. M. Jodi Rell, who died Wednesday in Florida following a brief illness.

"Governor Rell took over the reins at the State Capitol at a time when confidence in government was shaken due to several political scandals. She quickly restored trust in government and promoted public service in the best possible light," Camillo said in a statement.

"I will always remember her warm demeanor and the kindness she showed me both when I first ran for state representative and after I was sworn in. Never displaying an ego, Governor Rell set an example that all public servants should strive for in office. We will keep her family and loved ones in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Rest peacefully Governor and thank you for everything you did for the State of Connecticut."

Rell was Connecticut's 87th governor, serving from 2004 until 2011. She was only the second female governor in the state's history. Prior to serving as the state's top executive, Rell served as lieutenant governor for 10 years and as a member of the state House of Representatives for 10 years, representing Brookfield and Bethel.

>>>Read more on Rell and reaction from around the state

Born in Virginia on June 16, 1946, Rell attended Old Dominion University and Western Connecticut State University. She received honorary doctor of law degrees from the University of Hartford in 2001 and the University of New Haven in 2004.

Rell made unprecedented investments in innovative early childhood programs, and also signed into law two balanced and on-time state budgets that honored the state’s spending cap, provided for the state’s “Rainy Day” budget reserve fund to be filled, and invested in other critical priorities, according to her biography with the National Governors' Association.

Gov. Ned Lamont has ordered flags in the state to be lowered, effective immediately, and remain lowered until sunset on the date of interment, which has not yet been determined.