Chicago’s first and, to date, only female mayor Jane Byrne has died, according to reports.
The Chicago Sun-Times’ Michael Sneed reported late Friday morning that Byrne had died. The Chicago Tribune also reported the news of Byrne's death.
Byrne was 81 years old and had suffered from health problems in recent years, including a hospitalization following a stroke in 2013.
Byrne served as the mayor of Chicago from 1979 until 1983. She defeated incumbent Michael Bilandic, who had been considered part of the city’s “Democratic machine,” and was succeeded in office by Harold Washington.
Earlier this year, Byrne made a rare public appearance at a Chicago ceremony commemorating the city’s Circle Interchange being renamed in her honor. The City Council also moved to rename Water Tower Park after Byrne this summer.
Byrne’s legacy as mayor included a tough stance on gun control and the spearheading of popular Chicago attractions like the Taste of Chicago and the redevelopment of Navy Pier. Byrne also appointed the first black superintendent of Chicago Public Schools and was the first mayor to participate in the city’s Gay Pride Parade.
Reactions to Byrne’s death came rolling in Friday. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel described Byrne as “a great trailblazer” and “a Chicago icon.”
Other Chicago-connected elected officials and community leaders mourned Byrne’s death:
I’m a history teacher by profession, and I know that Jane Byrne will have a significant place in this history of our great City.
— Toni Preckwinkle (@ToniPreckwinkle) November 14, 2014
Naming an interchange after Jane Byrne falls far short of giving her the recognition she deserves as Chicago's female mayor. RIP
— John Fritchey (@johnfritchey) November 14, 2014
Our 2024 Coverage Needs You
Already contributed? Log in to hide these messages.