Jay Rockefeller, former West Virginia governor and senator, dies at 89
The longtime Democrat served nearly three decades in the U.S. Senate before leaving office.
By Sofia Ramirez ·
John D. "Jay" Rockefeller IV, a former West Virginia governor and U.S. senator, died Friday. He was 89 years old.
Rockefeller represented West Virginia in the Senate for nearly 30 years. He belonged to the prominent Rockefeller family from New York. He served as the state's governor before taking his seat in the upper chamber of Congress.
Political leaders in West Virginia issued tributes on Friday. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, a Republican, posted on X that she was deeply saddened by his passing. She described him as a true gentleman who treated her with respect and kindness. Capito noted that they developed a friendship that transcended politics. She said she and her husband, Charlie, were keeping Sharon Rockefeller, their children, grandchildren, and the extended family in their prayers.
Former Sen. Joe Manchin, a Democrat who also served as governor, called Rockefeller a mentor. Manchin wrote on X that he looked up to Rockefeller as a friend and mentor. When Manchin ran for his first full Senate term in 2012, Rockefeller helped him every step of the way. Manchin said Rockefeller showed him how to be an effective senator and best represent the state. Manchin later switched his party registration to independent before leaving the Senate.
Sen. Jim Justice, a Republican and former governor, called the news sad for the state. Justice said Rockefeller's dedicated service as governor and senator reflected his love for West Virginia. He noted that Rockefeller worked hard for West Virginians and made a difference in countless lives. Justice, who won a gubernatorial race as a Democrat and later as a Republican, sent his and his wife Cathy's love to the Rockefeller family.
Current Gov. Patrick Morrisey, a Republican, issued a statement praising Rockefeller's work. Morrisey said Rockefeller's service helped shape the state and left a lasting mark on the lives of generations of West Virginians. He stated that Rockefeller's decades of service deserved respect and gratitude. Morrisey added that his legacy would remain an important part of West Virginia's history.
