House Democratic leader, Renny Cushing, died of prostate cancer on March 7. The following is from NH Democratic chairman, Ray Buckley.
This week, New Hampshire lost a great and courageous hero, and I lost a good friend, with the passing of New Hampshire House Democratic Leader Renny Cushing. Renny’s passion for justice was unparalleled in New Hampshire history. Leader Cushing spent his entire life fighting the good fight and always courageously championing the cause of those who needed a champion.
Personally, I was inspired by his charismatic leadership as a teen, and followed him in the fight against the Seabrook nuclear plant. Just ten years later, we were both elected to the NH House in 1986 — both by 9 votes. Together we worked on issues both great and small, his clarity of thought, strategic mind and heart of gold were a wonder to behold. His sense of justice never wavered or compromised. His epic determination and strength led to impressive victories both inside the legislature and out.
All New Hampshire Democrats are feeling an immense loss and mourn the passing of Leader Cushing. Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife Kristie Conrad and his three daughters, Marie, Elizabeth and Grace.
On April 10, Representative Kathi Rogers died of cancer. I am heartbroken to have announced the passing of eight term New Hampshire State Representative Katherine D. Rogers of Concord, my closest friend of nearly fifty years.
Kathi’s heroic battle with cancer is now over. Right up to the end she was working hard on legislation. She never gave up the fight. She died peacefully Sunday afternoon surrounded by friends and her beloved pug, Romeo.
Kathi was brilliant, skilled, and tenacious in everything she did-– but most of all she was loyal to her friends, who she considered family.
Throughout her life Kathi’s underlying concern was protecting those from abuse; animals, children, women and all disenfranchised peoples. She has left a lasting legacy in Concord, Merrimack County, New Hampshire and the Democratic Party.
Our hearts are broken, we will keep our promise to continue their fight.