The Tragic Passage of former Rep. Kelly

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Phil Robinson (D-Solon) today expressed his sorrow over the passage of Hamilton County Auditor and former State Rep. Brigid Kelly (D-Cincinnati), who passed away from esophageal cancer last week, to remember their friendship and her public service:

“I am heartbroken and devastated to learn of the passing of former State Representative Brigid Kelly. It still has not quite sunk in yet that we lost one of our own. It is not often you meet someone as authentic, caring, and as committed to helping people as Brigid. Her career and life was devoted to public service, and should be an example to all of us. When we served together at the Statehouse, Brigid was not only one of the friendliest state representatives you could have ever met, but she was also one of the strongest and most passionate fighters for justice, equity, and straightforwardly–what was right. Brigid was a champion of women’s rights, consumers’ rights, and workers’ rights and the labor movement.

No matter how difficult the challenges we faced at the Statehouse, you could always count on Brigid to wear something green, exemplify what it means to serve powerfully as a state representative, and make you laugh over Diet Cokes. It was an honor to serve with Brigid. It was an honor to learn from Brigid. She served as a great role model for what it means to be a true leader and servant of the people.

My heart goes out to Brigid’s family, closest friends, and the people of Norwood, Cincinnati, and Hamilton County, and anyone else in Ohio who was lucky enough to know her. We will all miss you Brigid.”

Rep. Robinson and former Rep. Kelly served together in the Ohio House of Representatives during the 133rd and 134th General Assemblies from Jan. 2019 to December 2022.