Jay Rockefeller, West Virginia Senator and Governor, Dies at 89
The former Democratic leader, who served for nearly three decades in the U.S. Senate, passed away on Friday.
By Oliver Bennett ·
John D. "Jay" Rockefeller IV, a former U.S. Senator and Governor of West Virginia, died at the age of 89 on Friday. The Democratic politician was a member of the prominent New York Rockefeller family and spent almost 30 years serving in the United States Senate.
Political leaders from West Virginia issued tributes on Friday to acknowledge his departure. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, a Republican from West Virginia, posted on X that she was deeply saddened by the news. She described Rockefeller as a true gentleman who treated her with respect and kindness. Capito noted that they developed a friendship that transcended politics and said she was keeping the Rockefeller family in her prayers.
Former Senator Joe Manchin, who also previously served as West Virginia governor, characterized Rockefeller as a mentor. Manchin, a Democrat who later registered as an independent, wrote that he looked up to Rockefeller as both a friend and a guide. He stated that Rockefeller helped him every step of the way when he ran for his first full Senate term in 2012. Manchin added that Rockefeller showed him how to be an effective senator and best represent the state.
Senator Jim Justice, a Republican from West Virginia, also commented on the death in a post on X. Justice, who won one gubernatorial race as a Democrat and another as a Republican, called the news sad for the entire state. He said Rockefeller’s years of service as Governor and Senator reflected his love for West Virginia. Justice and his wife sent their love and prayers to Sharon Rockefeller and the rest of the family.
Current Governor Patrick Morrisey, a Republican, released a statement honoring Rockefeller's contributions. Morrisey said Rockefeller's work helped shape the state and left a lasting mark on generations of West Virginians. He stated that Rockefeller's decades of service deserved respect and gratitude. Morrisey concluded that Rockefeller's legacy would remain an important part of West Virginia's history.
Rockefeller's tenure included significant time in both the statehouse and the Capitol. His service spanned multiple decades, during which he represented West Virginia at the national level. Colleagues across party lines emphasized his dedication to the state and his personal relationships with fellow leaders.
