Former Del. Carolyn Howard, a Democrat who represented Prince George’s County in Maryland’s lower chamber for nearly three decades, died Saturday. She was 87.

Her family confirmed her death to News4, Washington’s NBC affiliate.

Howard, also a past chair of the House Democratic Caucus and the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, spent the last 12 years of her tenure as deputy speaker pro tem. She retired in 2019.

Before entering politics, she spent 25 years in county schools.

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“Her commitment to public service and steadfast advocacy for her community leave a lasting legacy,” House Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk said in a joint social media post with Maryland House Democrats on Monday. “Delegate Howard will be missed by all who had the privilege to know her and work with her.”

Peña-Melnyk said Howard had special interests in transportation, economic issues and civil rights.

This story will be updated.

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