Saturday, September 22, 2007

Melodee Jackson Has Passed

The Arizona Democratic Party extends its condolences to the family of Melodee Jackson, a beloved leader among Arizona Democrats. Melodee passed away today with family at her side.

“Melodee inspired generations of Democrats in Arizona and was crucial in developing a strong party,” said Don Bivens, Chair of the Arizona Democratic Party. “For decades, Melodee was synonymous with the Arizona Democratic Party. Today we mourn her passing, but celebrate her decades of hard work electing Democrats and advocating for equality, opportunity and community.”

Jackson was Executive Director of the Arizona Democratic Party for nearly two decades. She assumed the No. 2 position at the Party in the early 1980s, when Sam Goddard was chairman. She continued as executive director until 1998.

For Melodee’s extraordinary service to Democrats, she was inducted into the Party’s Hall of Fame in 2001.

Following her work as the Party’s Executive Director, Melodee served as director of constituent services for Gov. Janet Napolitano.