DES MOINES, Iowa — The state of Iowa is mourning the loss of one of its most passionate public servants and community advocates, State Senator Claire Celsi, who passed away at the age of 59 after spending several weeks in hospice care. Her death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to service, advocacy, and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Iowans across the state.
Senator Celsi, a Democrat representing Iowa Senate District 16, was widely respected for her energetic leadership, outspokenness on social justice issues, and unwavering advocacy for education, public safety, and environmental protection. According to her family, she died peacefully surrounded by loved ones following a courageous health battle.
Born and raised in Des Moines, Claire Celsi built her career around service — first as a communications professional and later as a respected legislator who made it her mission to amplify the voices of those often unheard. Before entering the Iowa Senate, she served in the Iowa House of Representatives, where she quickly earned a reputation for her compassion, attention to detail, and willingness to work across party lines to find common ground.
Throughout her political career, Celsi championed a range of causes close to her heart, including mental health reform, women’s rights, environmental conservation, and government transparency. Colleagues and constituents alike remember her as a fearless leader who wasn’t afraid to challenge the status quo or speak truth to power when the moment demanded it.
“Claire was a force — strong, determined, and deeply kind,” said Senate Minority Leader Pam Jochum in a statement following her passing. “She fought tirelessly for the people she represented and brought heart and conviction to every debate. Her legacy will continue to shape Iowa for generations to come.”
Outside the halls of the Capitol, Celsi was deeply engaged in her community. She served on numerous local boards, volunteered with civic organizations, and mentored young women aspiring to enter politics. Her advocacy extended far beyond policy; she was known for personally checking in on constituents, organizing neighborhood cleanups, and supporting small businesses across her district.
Those who knew her best remember her infectious laugh, her love for Iowa’s natural beauty, and her fierce loyalty to friends and family. “Claire had this incredible ability to make you feel seen,” one close friend shared. “She never stopped believing in people’s capacity to do good.”
In her final weeks, Celsi’s family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from across Iowa and beyond. Tributes poured in from political leaders on both sides of the aisle, community members, and advocacy organizations she worked with over the years.
Governor Kim Reynolds ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Senator Celsi’s service to the state, calling her “a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly for the betterment of her constituents and her community.”
A public memorial service is expected to be held in Des Moines, where friends, family, and fellow Iowans will gather to celebrate her life and legacy. Details regarding funeral arrangements will be announced by the Celsi family in the coming days.
Senator Claire Celsi leaves behind a lasting impact — not only in the legislation she helped shape but in the countless lives she touched through her compassion, courage, and commitment to making Iowa a better place for all.
“Her voice will be missed in the Senate chamber,” said one colleague. “But her spirit — her drive to fight for fairness, dignity, and decency — will live on in every person she inspired.”
As Iowa bids farewell to one of its most dedicated leaders, the legacy of Claire Celsi serves as a reminder that true public service is not about politics, but about people — and about using one’s voice to make a difference that endures.
Headline:
Iowa Mourns the Loss of State Senator Claire Celsi, 59; Beloved Lawmaker and Community Advocate Dies After Weeks in Hospice Care
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