Following the death of Brigide Kelly, a former Hamilton County auditor, “We’ve Lost a Champion and True Public Servant for Our Citizens.
Cincinnati (WXIX) – Brigide Kelly, who quit as Hamilton County auditor less than a week ago, died on Tuesday night amid her fight with cancer, according to a statement made public by county officials on behalf of her family.
Her age was forty.
The press release read, “It is with sadness that we report that our beloved Brigide Kelly passed away at home on Tuesday evening.”
She had battled cancer for two years, but now she was at peace and loved. Brigide recently resigned from her role as Hamilton County Auditor due to declining health. She was a beloved friend, a loving wife, mother, sister, and a real public servant. Funeral plans are still being finalized.”
A week before, on March 20, Kelly had tendered her resignation.
During their meeting on Thursday, the county commissioners decided to accept her resignation and swore in Amy Humphrey, the chief deputy auditor, as the temporary auditor.
“Resigning from the Auditor’s office is a difficult decision, but attention to my personal health is necessary,” Kelly stated in her letter of resignation to the county leaders.
In an effort to succeed her, she has urged people to support Jessica Miranda, the Forest Park state representative.
Aftab Pureval, the mayor of Cincinnati, called Kelly “an irrepressible spirit.”
Pureval wrote, “You always knew she was there, that she cared,” in a post on his Facebook page. said she would assist however needed to be done. She was the kind of person who was committed to helping others and had a special interest in people in need.”
Hearing of Kelly’s passing, County Commission Chair Alicia Reece expressed her sorrow.
Reece solemnly remarked, “In the departure of this remarkable individual, we bid farewell to not just a champion but also a dedicated public servant who tirelessly worked for the betterment of our community.
Kelly was a real public servant, according to Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey, “who wanted the best for her community.”
At the county commission meeting on Thursday, county commissioner Denise Driehaus stated, “I have known Brigide for decades. She has dedicated her adult life to defending the values of justice, fairness, and respect for others.”
Following the news of the former auditor’s passing, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and his spouse Fran DeWine also extended their condolences.
Throughout her career, Brigide served the public interest primarily as a state representative, Hamilton County auditor, and first as a councilwoman for Norwood City. I knew Brigide to be collegial, cooperative, and eager to work with both sides to further the interests of Ohioans, as did many others who worked with her. DeWine added, “Fran and I send our sincere condolences to Brigide’s husband, Steve, and her whole family.
Dusty Rhodes, who served as auditor for more than 30 years without running for reelection, was replaced as auditor by Kelly in 2022.
Kelly’s resignation letter claimed that the office has reevaluated 350,000 county land parcels and was attempting to update the Board of Revision procedure by making it more fair. The proposals also included increasing equity in other projects.
Kelly was reared and started her political career as a member of the Norwood City Council. From 2017 to 2022, she represented the state as a state representative. At the end of 2022, she successfully ran for the position of Auditor.
In an early statement on Wednesday morning, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers said, “I am deeply saddened to learn of Brigide Kelly’s tragic passing last night.”
“She was a vibrant young lady who had a strong dedication to serving the greater good. She was a devoted and capable county employee who was well-known for her exceptional leadership. She has fought against cancer with amazing bravery for the last two years. My deepest condolences are sent to her family and loved ones during this incredibly trying time.”
