SALT LAKE CITY — A heartfelt memorial service was held Monday to honor the life and legacy of former U.S. Representative Mia Love, who passed away at the age of 49 following a battle with brain cancer.
Family, friends, and community leaders gathered at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Institute of Religion on the University of Utah campus to remember Love’s contributions to politics, her vibrant personality, and the inspiration she provided to many across the state and nation.
Love, the daughter of Haitian immigrants, had been undergoing treatment for glioblastoma — an aggressive form of brain cancer. Despite participating in a clinical trial that included immunotherapy, her condition worsened, and she passed away peacefully on March 23 at her Saratoga Springs home.
Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson Reflects on a Powerful Friendship
Utah Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson shared emotional memories of her close friendship with Love, whom she described as a mentor and confidante throughout her early political journey. The two bonded deeply over shared passions — from music and patriotism to their vision for Utah’s future.
Henderson recounted Love’s determination even after her diagnosis. “She told me, ‘I’ve decided that I’m not going to die. I’ve decided that I’m actually going to live,’” Henderson said, noting how Love was back on a treadmill just two weeks after surgery.
“Those moments we shared during her battle were some of the most meaningful. She gave strength when we needed it, even as she faced her own toughest fight,” Henderson said.
A Celebration of Life, Not Loss
Mia’s husband, Jason Love, painted a picture of a woman full of charisma, strength, and a sharp wit. He honored her wish to make her memorial a joyful celebration, even sharing a humorous story from their early marriage about returning wedding gifts. When Jason struggled to return extra toasters without receipts, Mia stepped in and charmed the store staff, walking out minutes later with cash. “That’s when I knew I married a Jedi knight,” he joked.
Jason described Mia as a devoted mother and pillar of faith, who instilled values of kindness, perseverance, and hard work in their children. “She wasn’t someone who could be kept to herself. Her influence was meant to be shared — and she gave everything she had to others,” he said.
A Sister’s Tribute to a Fearless Role Model
Mia’s sister, Cynthia Brito, spoke about Love’s tireless spirit and determination from a young age. She recalled her dedication to the arts, particularly school plays where Mia rehearsed endlessly to perfect her performances.
“Mia never backed down from a challenge,” Brito said. “She lived to serve, to uplift others, and to lead by example. Because of her, my own daughter found the courage to raise her voice and stand tall.”
Final Farewell at the Utah Capitol
The night before the memorial, Utahns had an opportunity to pay their final respects at the Capitol, where Love’s casket, draped in the U.S. flag, lay in state in the rotunda. Mourners filed past, reflecting on the legacy of a woman who broke barriers and changed lives.
Mia Love made history in 2014 as the first Black Republican woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Her life and service will long be remembered for breaking new ground and inspiring future generations to serve with courage, compassion, and conviction .
- Kings Score Three in Final Period to Top Utah in Exciting Finish - April 18, 2025
- Health Alert: Measles Cases in Utah Spark Concern Across Western U.S. - April 18, 2025
- Unidentified Body Found in Garbage Bag Sparks Investigation in Brigham City - April 18, 2025
