Former lawmaker Mary Murphy, longest-serving woman in the House, suffers stroke

A former lawmaker who is the longest-serving woman in the history of the Minnesota House has suffered a stroke. 

Former Rep. Mary Murphy, DFL-Hermantown, experienced a stroke last week and is in comfort care following complications, House Speaker Melissa Hortman said in a Facebook post late Monday. Hortman said Murphy remains hospitalized until she can be transferred to a hospice care facility. 

“Mary has had some visitors. Her family hopes that Mary could feel and appreciate their presence,” Hortman said. “While heart-wrenching, the family has determined that hospice is the best solution. Mary will receive comfort care at the hospital until she can be placed in a hospice care facility, which they expect to happen soon.”

Murphy, 85, is the second-longest serving member of the Minnesota House and the longest serving female legislator. She was first elected in 1976 and was defeated in her bid to represent the Duluth-area seat in 2022 by 33 votes. She's also a former history and social studies teacher.

Murphy was supposed to participate in last week’s Electoral College voting last week at the Capitol, an honor bestowed by party officials. She didn’t attend and an alternate was elevated.

Hortman said Murphy's family is grateful for the love and support shown by her friends, colleagues and community.

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