SALT LAKE CITY — Utahns will gather at the State Capitol to honor the life and legacy of former Rep. Mia Love, a historic political figure who passed away on March 23, 2025, following a two-year battle with glioblastoma, a rare and aggressive brain cancer.
Mia Love, a barrier-breaking public servant, made history as the first Black Republican woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Her death at age 49 has left a deep void in the hearts of her loved ones, colleagues, and the broader community she served.
Her family announced her passing in a touching message on X, formerly Twitter, noting that Love “quietly slipped the bands of mortality and, as her words and vision always did, soared heavenward.”
A Life of Firsts and Public Service
Born to Haitian immigrants in Brooklyn, New York, Love eventually found her way to Utah, where she would become a beloved civic leader. She began her political career in Saratoga Springs, serving on the city council before becoming mayor. She later represented Utah’s 4th Congressional District from 2015 to 2019.
Before entering politics, Love earned a degree in musical theatre from the University of Hartford and later moved to Utah, where she married Jason Love. Together, they raised three children—Alessa, Abigale, and Peyton—and welcomed a granddaughter, Mera.
Courage in the Face of Adversity
After being diagnosed with glioblastoma in 2023, Love pursued aggressive treatment and participated in clinical trials. Despite the prognosis, she remained active in sharing her thoughts through writing and social media, often encouraging others to live with purpose and courage.
In a Deseret News op-ed published shortly before her death, Love reflected on her life’s journey, her family’s immigrant roots, and the values she held dear. “My life has been extended by exceptional medical care… and the prayers of countless friends,” she wrote. “I hope you will hear my words in the whisper of the wind of freedom.”
Her final message, posted in the early hours of March 23, offered a call to action: “I am counting on each of you and all of you to find your voice, raise it, live with character, and lead the next generation.”
Tributes from Across the Country
Mia Love’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and admiration from leaders nationwide. Sen. Mike Lee remembered her optimism, stating, “Every time I saw Mia in Washington, she had a smile and words of encouragement for everyone.”
Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina described her as a “trailblazer” and praised her lifelong dedication to service, while Rep. Scott Perry of Pennsylvania acknowledged her as a “friend” who “made a real mark” through her faith and determination.
Former Speaker of the House Paul Ryan shared his condolences as well, calling Love “one of a kind” and noting her unique path from the child of immigrants to a national leader. “She was committed to bettering the world around her,” he said.
Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson and Riverton City Council member Tawnee McCay also shared emotional memories. Henderson spoke of the importance of friendship during difficult times, while McCay recalled how Love inspired her to pursue a political career of her own.
A Voice for Change
While in Congress, Love served on the Financial Services Committee and supported legislation aimed at improving financial oversight, expanding access to contraceptives, and increasing accountability in cases of misconduct within Congress.
She also participated in the House Select Investigative Committee on Planned Parenthood, contributing to national discussions on ethics and public policy.
After losing a tightly contested re-election race in 2018, Love transitioned to political commentary, notably joining CNN to offer a conservative voice in national conversations.
Celebration of Life and Public Memorial
Love’s funeral will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Institute of Religion at the University of Utah on Monday, from 10 a.m. to noon. Members of the public are welcome to attend and pay their respects.
In lieu of flowers, the Love family has requested that donations be made to the Robert Preston Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke University and the Huntsman Cancer Institute—two institutions that played a role in her treatment journey.
Mia Love is survived by her husband Jason, her children, her granddaughter, her parents Jean Maxime and Marie Bourdeau, and her siblings Jean and Cynthia.
She leaves behind a legacy of integrity, perseverance, and inspiration—forever remembered not only for her historic achievements but for her compassion, resilience, and unwavering belief in the American dream .
