The wife of Sen. James Manning, D-Eugene, passed away Friday morning.
Lawanda Manning was a well-known presence at the Oregon Capitol, having worked in Senator Manning’s office. She also served as the Chair of the Oregon Commission on Black Affairs. Lawanda and James Manning had celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary in March.
Reaction to her passing was swift.
"Today, the Oregon State Capitol lost one of its kindest souls," said Senate President Peter Courtney, D-Salem. "Wherever she went, she lit up the room and brought smiles to faces. Generous and full of compassion, she always looked for ways to make life better for others."
“I am devastated," said Sen. Lew Frederick, D-Portland. "Lawanda was a force, creating an expectation that you would do your best because she had confidence in the right thing being done."
Gov. Kate Brown noted Manning's death on her Twitter feed. "There is so much I want to say, but all I can manage right now is how much she will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family at this time."
