Chicago Ald. JoAnn Thompson has died, according to her chief of staff.
The 16th Ward alderman's Chief of Staff Debbie Blair issued a statement through the mayor's office on Tuesday.
"It is with heavy hearts that we confirm Alderman JoAnn Thompson passed away yesterday, surrounded by her family, friends, and lots of love from the greater Englewood community which she served with devotion to her final day. JoAnn suffered a sudden heart failure, finally succumbing to a health battle that she fought with the same courage and grace for which she was known and loved throughout her wonderful life. Her family deeply appreciates the kindness and good wishes that have already come from all quarters of our wonderful city and they ask for privacy during this difficult time as they prepare to say a final goodbye to our dear friend JoAnn."
Thompson, who was seeking re-election in the Feb. 24th race, was elected to the City Council in 2007. Her ward included the neighborhoods of Englewood and Gage Park.
Mayor Emanuel praised Thompson and the work she did as alderman.
"With the passing of Alderman JoAnn Thompson, Englewood has lost a tireless advocate and Chicago has lost one of its dearest friends," Emanuel said in a statement.
"Alderman Thompson made it her mission to bring jobs, economic empowerment, and educational opportunities to every child and family in Englewood. Her caring spirit and constant smile made JoAnn someone who you wanted to be with and her values defined what it means to build one future as one Chicago. We are saddened by her loss but thankful for the life she lived and the service she gave to our great City of Chicago," he said.
This election Thompson, who was backed by Emanuel, was going up against against fellow Ald. Toni Foulkes. Foulkes decided to run in a neighboring ward after a City Council remap gave an edge in her current 15th Ward to a Latino candidate.
On Tuesday, Foulkes issued a statement about Thompson's death.
"I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my colleague Ald. Thompson. We worked together as members of the Black Caucus on many important policy initiatives since we were both elected in 2007," the statement said.
"I admired her fierce commitment to the constituents and communities of the 16th Ward. My prayers are with Ald. Thompson's children and grandchildren," Foulkes said.
Action Now, a community organization focused on racial, social and economic issues in Chicago, also sent its condolences.
"The sudden passing of Alderman Joann Thompson is a shock to all of us at Action Now," said Katelyn Johnson, executive director of Action Now, said in a statement.
"Alderman Thompson related to the many of the same struggles as her constituents in Englewood, having overcome much adversity in her life. She served as a good example of how to persevere under pressure, and we pray for peace and comfort for Alderman Thompson's family, friends, and supporters in this most difficult time," she said.
The Chicago Tribune contributed.
Want more? Discuss this article and others on RedEye's Facebook page.