Carroll Leavell, a former state senator representing the Jal Republican constituency, died June 26 at the age of 86.
Leavell served in the legislature for nearly 22 years and was recognized for his respectful and dignified treatment of others, as stated by his son-in-law and former senator, Gregg Fulfer, according to the Albuquerque Journal.
“He was a people person, and he treated everyone with respect and dignity,” Fulfer told the Albuquerque Journal.
Leavell, who had a professional background as an insurance agent, played a significant role in the Senate Finance Committee and emerged as a prominent advocate for insurance-related matters at the Roundhouse, Albuquerque Journal reported. After being elected in 1996, Leavell served in the legislature until December 2018 when he resigned due to health concerns, having previously sought medical treatment for cancer in Houston.
“For me, of all the people I’ve served with, he truly represents what a statesman is,” said Sen. Gay Kernan, R-42nd, according to the Albuquerque Journal.
“I just have lots of good memories, thinking about Carroll and the work he did for this body and the state,” Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, D-25th, added, according to the Albuquerque Journal.
“As a longtime member of the Senate, he put the needs of his constituents ahead of politics, and he was widely respected by members on both sides of the aisle,” the Senate Republican Caucus said in a statement, the Albuquerque Journal reported.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham released a statement June 27 regarding the passing of Leavell. Leavell, who served as a dedicated public servant, represented southeast New Mexico in the Legislature from 1997 to 2018.
Lujan Grisham recognized his notable contributions and his service to the state and its residents in her statement.
"Our state is a better place because of his 20-plus years of service in the legislature and his willingness to work across the aisle to find solutions in the best interest of the people of New Mexico," Lujan Grisham said in her statement. “Sen. Leavell was a staunch advocate for the communities of southeastern New Mexico, including Eddy and Lea counties."
She noted he passed legislation which booster health care and public safety in his area and as "an integral part of securing funding to repair the Carlsbad Brine Well," her statement reported.
