ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland Governor Larry Hogan orders state flags to fly half staff amid the passing of former Maryland Governor Harry Hughes.
Before becoming the Governor of Maryland, Hughes was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates and went on to become a Maryland Senator in 1959, the Chair of the Maryland Democratic Party in 1966 and 1994, and the state Secretary of Transportation in 1971.
Hughes served two terms in office as Governor and wore many hats in legislation, such as being a member of the Maryland Board of Regents, the Chesapeake Bay Trust, the Maryland Appellate Judicial Nominating Commission, and the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy Board of Directors.
Governor Larry Hogan issued the following statement on the passing of Maryland's 57th Governor Harry Hughes:
The First Lady and I are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Governor Harry Hughes, a longtime friend and Maryland legend whom I deeply admired. His dedication to our great state - as a distinguished member of the Maryland General Assembly and as our 57th governor - and his service to our nation as a member of the Navy Air Corps during World War II leave a legacy behind that will be forever remembered. Our most sincere prayers are with his two daughters, Ann and Elizabeth, his family, friends, and loved ones in this time of grieving. We will give him the celebration of life that he truly deserves.
Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings, Chair of the Maryland Democratic Party, released a statement as members of the party mourn the loss of Hughes:
Governor Hughes’ life and career was a testament to his leadership, judgement, and commitment to making Maryland the best place to live, work, and conduct business. As a two-time former Maryland Democratic Party Chair, we especially honor his contributions to building our Party and extend our deepest condolences to his family.
Congressman Elijah E. Cummings also issued a statement on the passing of the former Maryland Governor:
I join my fellow Marylanders in mourning the passing of former Maryland Governor Harry Hughes. After serving the nation in war, Governor Hughes embarked on a remarkable life of public service, serving our state as a Delegate, State Senator, Maryland Secretary of Transportation, and Governor. Having dedicated more than three decades of service to Maryland, his impact on our state was tremendous—and it will be lasting. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Hogan says flags will fly half staff effective immediately until sunset of the day of interment.
