AUGUSTA – State Rep. Everett W. McLeod Sr., a Republican from Penobscot County, died Monday at his home after battling cancer.

McLeod, 68, of Lee, was re-elected Nov. 2 for a fourth two-year term.

Rep. Jeffery Gifford, R-Lincoln, said McLeod, who served on the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee, was a strong supporter of fishing, hunting and snowmobiling.

“He was a straight-shooting guy,” he said. “Very Christian. Very family-oriented. He put God and his family before almost anything and served his constituents well.”

McLeod also served on the Utilities and Energy Committee and the Government Oversight Committee. He also was active in town politics in Lee, serving on the school board and as a selectman.

“This is a great loss,” Gov. John Baldacci said in a prepared statement. “I’ve known Everett for 15 years, and he was a good man and a dedicated public servant. I enjoyed working with him Everett was a tireless advocate and will be greatly missed by his family, friends, community and by me personally.”

Baldacci went to McLeod’s home Dec. 5 to administer the oath of office because McLeod was too weak to travel.

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, said in a statement that she was “saddened to learn of Everett’s passing.”

“I last saw him in October when we had lunch together in Lincoln,” she said. “I’ll always remember his great sense of humor, quick wit, and his kindness.”

Senate President Kevin Raye, R-Perry, said McLeod was “a dedicated public servant and a devoted family man.”

McLeod’s death marks the first time since 2007 that a legislator has died while in office.

That year, three House members died: Abigail Holman, R-Fayette, and her successor in House District 83, Deane Jones, D-Mount Vernon; and Earl Richardson, R-Greenville.

Holman died in a skiing accident, and Jones died of lung cancer. Richardson also died of cancer.

There is no automatic special election to fill McLeod’s seat, according to the Secretary of State’s Office.

One of the towns in his district, a large rural area that covers parts of Penobscot, Washington and Hancock counties, must notify the governor of a vacancy before the state can call for an election to fill the seat.

 

MaineToday Media State House Writer Susan M. Cover can be contacted at 620-7015 or at:

scover@mainetoday.com