Freshman State Rep. Lamin Swann, a Democrat from Lexington, died Saturday. He was 45.
Swann had a “significant medical emergency requiring hospitalization” Tuesday, his mom, Pam Dixon, said earlier this week.
“There are no words to fully describe the grief and impossible loss that others and I feel right now after saying good-bye earlier today to my beloved son, Lamin,” Dixon said in a statement released Sunday morning. “Beyond our faith, what comforts us is knowing the positive and lasting impact he had on so many. Those include his loved ones and friends; those he advocated for throughout his life; and, now, those whose own lives will forever be strengthened by his decision to be an organ donor.
“We are extremely grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received over the last several days, and I know he felt it, too. Thank you.”
Swann represented part of Fayette County. He won a contested general election in the newly formed 93rd state House district in 2022.
Statements about Swann’s passing
House Speaker David Osborne
“Representative Swann was an incredibly dedicated public servant committed to serving the people of the 93rd House District. While his time in the House has been cut short, Lamin had already established himself as a passionate advocate for his district as well as a voice for those who live with disabilities. He had many friends among our colleagues and served as a positive force in countless discussions. His loss will be felt by all who served with him. On behalf of the Kentucky House of Representatives, I extend our deepest condolences to Lamin’s loved ones and hope they find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind.”
Gov. Andy Beshear
“My heart is heavy this morning at the news of Rep. Lamin Swann’s passing. Lamin was always smiling, leading with kindness while working to build a better Kentucky for all. He will be greatly missed. Please join Britainy and me in praying for his family.”
NKY’s Buddy Wheatley, a former legislator
“I’m deeply saddened by the loss of Lamin Swann. The sacrifices he made to represent his constituents were inspirational.”
Chair Colmon Elridge of the KDP
“Like most Kentuckians, Lamin knew hardships, but his spirit always reflected a belief that anything worth dreaming was possible. With countless examples of hard work, perseverance, and his overwhelming capacity to love and respect everyone, he showed us how to overcome. That was his character and those were the values he carried into the legislative chamber as a state representative. For nearly two decades, I was blessed to call Lamin Swann my brother. This is a heartbreaking and monumental loss for his family, his loved ones, his community, his colleagues, for our party, for me, and for Kentucky. We send our love, strength, and prayers to his mother Pamela, the rest of his family and those blessed to know and love Lamin. May God welcome this great and faithful servant with open arms.”
Kentucky House Democratic Caucus Leaders Derrick Graham, Cherlynn Stevenson, and Rachel Roberts
“Our caucus is devastated by the news of Lamin’s passing, and we pray for his family during this extremely difficult time. Lamin was a great friend, and our caucus is better for having known and worked alongside him. He served his constituents as well as anyone ever has. He was an especially strong advocate for Fayette County as well as countless other Kentuckians who benefited from his voice on issues ranging from social justice to expanding disability rights, causes we will continue to champion on his behalf. We truly enjoyed working with him and only wish it could have been for far longer.”
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Written by Mark Maynard. Cross-posted from the Northern Kentucky Tribune, with additional statements added.
