Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Virginia, has died. He was 75 and recently announced his plans to retire after learning his esophageal cancer had returned.
“It is with immense sadness that we share that our devoted and loving father, husband, brother, friend, and public servant, Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, passed away peacefully at his home this morning surrounded by family,” Connolly’s family said in a statement May 21.
Connolly shared his diagnosis in November, saying in a statement, “Cancer can be tough. But so am I. I will attack this the only way I know how – with Irish fight and humor.”
Yet on April 28 he posted on X that the cancer had returned.
“With no rancor and a full heart, I move into this final chapter full of pride in what we’ve accomplished together over 30 years,” Connolly wrote. “My loving family and staff sustain me. My extended family – you all have been a joy to serve.”