Utah leaders mourn the passing of former State Senator Karen Mayne

SALT LAKE CITY ( ABC4 ) — Utah politicians are mourning the loss of former State Senator Karen Mayne after it was announced she had passed away at age 78 on Thursday, Aug. 15

A Salt Lake City native and member of the democratic party, Mayne served Utah’s District 5 Senator for 15 years between 2008 and 2023. Mayne was appointed to the seat in 2007 after the death of her husband, former State Sen. Ed Mayne.

Over her years in the Utah State Senate, Karen Mayne served as the Assistant Minority Whip and the Senate Minority Whip. She also served on several committees and task forces, including the Executive Appropriations Committee, the Business and Labor Confirmation Committee, and the Mental Health Protection for First Responders Workgroup.

Her time in the Utah State Legislature came to an end in January 2023, when she resigned from her position, citing health reasons.

Senate President J. Stuart Adams and Minority Leader Luz Escamilla issued a joint statement about Mayne’s passing, saying in part, “We will forever be grateful for the years we were lucky enough to spend working alongside Sen. Mayne. During this time, we witnessed her unwavering dedication, compassion, and grace in serving the people of Utah. Not only was she a confidant of ours but also a source of inspiration, both personally and professionally.”

Utah legislators and political leaders on both sides of the aisle shared their condolences and well wishes for the late State Senator in the day following her passing on social media. Many have revered her as a genuine person who cared about the State of Utah and those she worked with. Others called her a mentor from whom they learned a lot while they were in the Senate.

Below are a few of the words shared in the memory of State Sen. Karen Mayne:

I am so grateful for the oppotunity to serve alongside Senator Karen Mayne. She was a dedicated legislator and kind to everyone she worked with. She will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.

House Speaker Rep. Mike Schultz (R-District 12)

Senator Karen Mayne was a champion of the west side, and a hero of Kearns. I am grateful for the time and friendship I had with her, for the exmaple and guidance she gave, and the legacy she leaves behind. I am so grateful that she was able to spend this time with the family she loved so dearly and am comforted by the thought that she’s back with her sweetie, Ed. As they say, ‘Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.’

Rep. Ashlee Matthews (D-District 37)

This is a huge loss. Karen was a friend and mentor to me during my eight years in the Utah Senate. She was a genuinely compassionate woman who cared deeply about others, faithfully served her constituents and our state, and was one of the best people I’ve ever known.

Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson (R)

Karen Mayne was a leader and tremendous public servant to residents in the Salt Lake Valley. Her biggest legacy is the thousands of lives she positively impacted in the classroom as a teacher for 20 years. I’m deeply saddened by her passing and she will be greatly missed.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall (D)

Senator Karen Mayne was a force and always spoke her mind. She will be greatly missed. My heart goes out to her family and her mentees former leader Jennifer Seelig and my good friend Sen. Luz [Escamilla].

House Minority Leader Rep. Angela Romero (D-District 25)

I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Sen. Karen Mayne. Karen was a mentor to me. I admired her and learned from her. She was a community champion on labor issues and for her west side constituents. She was a fighter but also kind and generous. My love to the Mayne family.

Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson (D)

Senator Karen Mayne was an influential leader in the Utah State Legislature. As a champion for Utah’s workers, she tirelessly advocated for labor rights and ensured that the voices of everyday Utahns were heard at the State Capitol. Her commitment to improving the lives of workers, women, and families led to significant policy changes that will impact generations, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape our state’s future. Our thoughts are with Senator Mayne’s family during this time. Her dedication to our state will continue to inspire us all.

Utah House Democrats

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