INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indiana state Sen. Jean Breaux passed away Wednesday, two days after her announcement to spend more time with family amid ongoing health issues.

Breaux represented District 34, which includes parts of Marion County’s Center, Lawrence, Warren, and Washington townships.

Senate Democratic Leader Greg Taylor, (D-Indianapolis), released the following statement Wednesday:

“Unfortunately, we have just received news that Senator Jean Breaux passed away today. It is a heavy and extremely sad day. The loss of State Senator Jean Breaux will be profoundly felt by the countless lives she touched, and we join so many in mourning the loss of her incredible life. We send our sincerest condolences to her mother, former State Senator Billie Breaux, and her family during this time. We kindly ask that all media and the public respect the family’s privacy at this time. The family will release information about a memorial service for Senator Jean Breaux once they have had time to make arrangements.”

Breaux was first appointed to the Senate in 2006. Later that year, she was elected to the Senate, according to her online biography.

“I want to express my sincerest gratitude to everyone who has reached out, to my Statehouse colleagues and team, and to the community I have been so incredibly grateful to represent for nearly two decades. I am extremely proud of the work we did together to improve Black infant and maternal mortality, increase access to healthy food in food deserts, protect Hoosiers from rising utility costs, fight for reproductive justice, pass policies to address poverty, keep our communities safe from gun violence and so much more. “

Indiana state Sen. Jean Breaux, a Democrat from Indianapolis, on March 18, 2024

“It’s hard to put words around a loss as great as the one our community is experiencing today with the passing of Senator Jean Breaux.
Senator Breaux was widely and rightly known as a fierce advocate for the residents of Lawrence, whom she represented in the Senate. She was respected in many corners for her willingness to fight for what she believed in, for her determination to speak her mind – come hell or high water. She was treasured by many who knew her for her sharp mind and unbreakable spirit.
But she was more than all of that, too. Jean was a mentor to me and to countless other women of color; a role model and trailblazer who kept a light on the path for those of us attempting to follow in her footsteps. She inspired me, challenged me, blessed me, cared for me. She was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of friend.
Senator Jean Breaux’s earthly flame was extinguished today, but her light shines on. I pray for her peace and for the comfort of her mother, Billie, the entire Breaux family, Jean’s Senate colleagues, and all those who loved her. “

Statement from City of Lawrence Mayor Whitfield