Public figures weigh in on death of former state Sen. Evelyn Bowles

From Illinois Business Journal news services

Elected leaders from throughout the region weighed in Saturday upon the news of the death of former state Sen. Evelyn Bowles, the longtime Madison County clerk.

Here is a sampling:

“Sad news. A pioneer and a force. She didn’t put herself above others. Evelyn provided personal and competent service with humility and respect for those she served. A great loss.”

– William Mudge, Judge 3rd Judicial Circuit

 “Truly a renaissance woman! She had it all, polotical dynamo, charm and grace, golfer and performer! I will never forget her renditions of ‘Democrats, Democrats’ sung to the melody of Ja Da! They broke the mold when they made her!”

– David Hylla, Chief Judge, 3rd Judicial Circuit

 “Evelyn was a great lady. She exemplified a devotion to honest and competent piblic service. God rest her soul.”

– William Haine, Illinois State Senator

 “I remember when I first met with Evelyn to seek her advice when I was contemplating running for coroner in 2000. She was so straightforward with her counsel, ‘don’t ever forget why you are in public service for as soon as you do, your supporters will forget why they voted for you. Always remain being the person they voted for. In politics it can be hard to stay humble and avoid becoming cynical, don’t fall into that ego trap and you will do well for yourself and your constituents.’”

– Steve Nonn, Coroner, Madison County

 “So very sad. She was a great lady with class!”

– Jay Hoffman, Illinois State Senator

 “She always took time to talk and, more importantly, to listen.”

– Dan Beiser, Representative, Illinois Legislature

 “It’s a sad day in Madison County with the news of the passing of Senator Evelyn Bowles. Her words, ‘When you fall down, and you will fall down, what matters moost is how you handle yourself in the process.’ and ‘The County Clerk serves all citizens. We don’t care if you’re Republican or Democrat, we treat everyone the same. Politics stops at the door,’ a position which remains the mantra in the County Clerk’s office.”

– Debbie Ming Mendoza, County Clerk, Madison County

 “Very sad. Evelyn was a true public servant and will be greatly missed.”

– Tom Gibbons, State’s Attorney, Madison County