Stephanie Tubbs Jones

I am sure you were as shocked I was by the news of the death of Ohio Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones. I signed the online guestbook sponsored by the Cleveland Plain Dealer with a note about seeing her speak at a Clinton rally at the University of Pennsylvania the day before the Pennsylvania primary. As a former Ohio resident and confirmed Buckeye, I was excited to see her. She was amazing! She had the most dynamic presence of anyone I have seen in politics. I can't believe she's gone. Below is a note about Tubbs Jones from Hillary Clinton. I'm sure Clinton will refer to her good friend in her speech at next week's Democratic National Convention.

Dear Kathleen, Yesterday, we lost a colleague, a friend, an inspiration, and a champion for all of us. I am deeply saddened by the death of Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones. She was my friend and my sister. She made me laugh, smile and fired up my spirit when I needed it most. She had a light that shone for the world to see within her and a fighting spirit safely stowed behind her disarming smile. Stephanie had so much integrity and a fiery intelligence that enabled her to become a one-woman force for progress in our country. Stephanie was a tireless worker, giving a voice to the voiceless and always combating injustice. Stephanie spent much of her life fighting for all Americans and to ensure that everyone had the most precious right - the right to vote. All of us who were lucky enough to know her and love her can only strive to be as much like her as we can -- to be as passionate, as loyal, as hard-charging, and as joyful every single day. Stephanie was one of a kind, and we will miss our friend forever. My family's deepest condolences are with Stephanie's son, Mervyn, her family, and her many loved ones, friends, supporters, and her beloved Ohioans. It is during this tough time that we look back and remember all the memories and blessings that Stephanie brought into our lives. If you have a thought, a story, a prayer, or condolences you would like to share, you can visit our website today so we can rejoice together in the friendship and love that we have for Stephanie. All the notes and memories we gather will be sent to her family on behalf of our extended family.