Democratic Leaders mourn the loss of Rep. Deane Jones

House Speaker Glenn Cummings and House Majority Leader Hannah Pingree expressed their shock and sadness Tuesday, following the sudden death of the newest member of the House of Representatives, Democrat Rep. Deane Jones of Mount Vernon.

“Deane’s death is a devastating blow and a tremendous loss for his family and friends, for a community which has already been through so much, and for Maine,” said Cummings. “We send our hearts, our thoughts and our deepest sympathies to his wife Pat and to his two sons.”

"Deane brought energy, creativity and a positive outlook on the future to his work in the Legislature,” said Pingree. “Our state has lost a loyal and dedicated advocate for Maine people, and he will be dearly missed."

Jones was serving his first term in the House of Representatives, having only been sworn in on June 13, just days before the Legislature adjourned for the summer. Jones was seated in the House after winning a special election held to fill the vacant seat left by the sudden death of Rep. Abigail Holman R-Fayette.

“When he took his seat in the House of Representatives this summer, he did so with incredible energy, enthusiasm and passion,” said Cummings. “He quickly became an important part of our team, a close friend, and a symbol of the hope and optimism we all hope to bring to the State House. This leaves us with a tremendous sense of loss.”

Jones passed away unexpectedly on Monday, as a result of complications during treatment for lung cancer at the age of 69. Jones and his family received the diagnosis for lung cancer just weeks ago, after complaints of a respiratory ailment following a trip to China. His treatment for lung cancer had just begun.

Jones’ death follows the loss of two other sitting House members this year, with the unexpected deaths of Rep. Abigail Holman , R-Fayette, and Rep. Earl Richardson, R- Greenville.

“This Legislature has witnessed so many sad losses, it is difficult to endure another,” said Cummings. “We are in many respects a family and it is with a heavy sadness that we feel the weight of each of our missing friends and colleagues.” Jones was a Waterville native who graduated from Waterville High School and then University of Maine in Orono with a bachelor’s in history and government. Jones also served in the United States Air Force. When Jones moved to Mount Vernon he was elected to the town’s select board, a position he held for the 18 years. After retiring from a long career in the printing and graphic arts business, Jones a registered Master Maine guide, hiked the entire length of the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. Rep. Jones is survived by his wife Pat, his two sons, Patrick and Michael, and his grandchildren.