With deepest sympathy, Linn County mourns the passing of former Linn County Supervisor Jean Oxley. Oxley died March 29, 2020. She was 94.
Oxley was the first woman elected to serve on the Linn County Board of Supervisors. She served Linn County residents in that role for 24 years, from 1972-1996. Oxley was also the first woman to be President of the 400-member State Supervisors Association. Throughout her career, and into her retirement, Oxley was a leader in providing human services for people with disabilities, the at-risk population, and others in need.
The Linn County Board of Supervisors has issued the following statement:
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of Jean Oxley. We extend our deepest condolences to Jean’s family and friends. Jean’s strong leadership, conviction, and tireless advocacy for people in need made an enormous impact on the people and families in Linn County, and those impacts are still being felt today. Linn County has lost an icon.”
In 2010, the Linn County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to name the Linn County Public Service Center after Jean Oxley in recognition of her contributions to the people of Linn County.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.