Long-Time Eastern CT State Rep. Dies At 96

COLUMBIA, CT — Edith Prague, of Columbia, a long-time member of the state legislature, died Thursday morning, according to her obituary. She was 96.

Prague was a teacher, a medical social worker, a representative in the Connecticut House of Representatives from 1982 to 1990, and a state Senator from 1995 to 2013. Prague also served as commissioner of the state Depart on Aging from 2013 until her retirement in 2014.

"She represented the people in her districts with tenacity and honesty and she listened to anyone who needed to be heard or needed help in life," her obituary reads. "She fought to protect the rights of people to be treated with fairness, dignity, and respect and never gave up on a cause she believed in. Edith called herself 'a social worker with power.' "

Born in Methuen, MA, Prague was "fortunate to live a life she loved, filled with family, friends, work and making a difference in this world," according to her obituary.

Gov. Ned Lamont said in a statement: "Edith Prague is the jewel of eastern Connecticut. She is a legend, whose feisty and caring personality will never be forgotten. She was as compassionate as she was bold, and through her entire life had an energy that was nothing short of infectious. Edith absolutely left her mark on Connecticut. I extend my deepest condolences to her family and friends. She will be missed."

Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said in a statement, "Edith was a fierce and outspoken advocate for seniors during her time as state senator. During her decades in government, she was a powerful voice for workers – walking picket lines into her 90s. As commissioner of the Department on Aging, she was unafraid to speak truth to power, no matter the consequences. Simply put, she was a model public servant. David and I offer our sincere condolences to her friends and family."

For information on services honoring Prague's life and where to donate in her honor, go to her obituary.