U.S. Senator Durbin on Death of Alderman JoAnn Thompson: “…Chicago Lost a Dedicated Public Servant…”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) made the following statement after learning of the death of Alderman JoAnn Thompson.

“Today, Chicago lost a dedicated public servant.  Alderman Thompson was a charismatic fixture in Chicago politics and a determined advocate for the Englewood neighborhood.  She saw potential in every corner of her community and worked to create opportunities and enrich the lives of others.   I am thankful to have worked with JoAnn.  Loretta and I send our deepest sympathies to her friends and family.”

South Side Alderman JoAnn Thompson, 58, died of heart failure yesterday (2/10/15). She was seeking a third term in the upcoming February 24^th election.

Thompson, backed by Mayor Rahm Emanuel, was in a re-election battle with Ald. Toni Foulkes (15^th Ward) who took on her colleague after a City Council remap pushed her out of her ward. Also in the running for the 16^th Ward Aldermanic seat is  former Alderman Shirley Coleman’s daughter, Stephanie Coleman.

Former Alderman Shirley Coleman, backed by then Mayor Richard M. Daley, was defeated by Thompson.

Thompson was first elected 16th Ward alderman in 2007.