Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has expressed her condolences following the death of former New Mexico Representative Dona Irwin. In a statement issued Thursday, the governor praised Irwin's dedication and service to District 32 and Deming over an 18-year period.
Lujan Grisham highlighted Irwin's advocacy for children, families, and rural communities in New Mexico. She noted Irwin's efforts to connect agricultural heritage with educational opportunities through her work with the Cooperative Extension Service. "Dona understood the vital connection between agriculture, our land-grant university families, and programs like 4-H that support the next generation," said Lujan Grisham.
The governor also commended Irwin for her forward-thinking approach to healthy meals and community gardens at senior centers across rural New Mexico, long before these became national priorities. "Her visionary leadership improved the lives of so many in our state," she added.
Lujan Grisham described Irwin as someone who embodied integrity and strength, emphasizing that "when Dona gave you her word, she kept it." The governor extended her sympathies to Irwin's children, Craig and Janet, as well as her grandchildren and family.
Irwin served Deming and House District 32 from 1999 until 2017 with determination and dedication.