CT MOURNS THE LOSS OF FORMER GOVERNOR JODI RELL AS SHE IS LAID TO REST

 

Honor guards depart from the Connecticut State Capitol, escorting the body of former Governor Jodi Rell as it makes its way to the Mass of Christian Burial at the Cathedral of Saint Joseph in Hartford. Photo, Boceto Media

Hartford, CT.- Connecticut is mourning the loss of former Governor M. Jodi Rell, who passed away on Wednesday, November 20, at the age of 78. Rell, who served as Connecticut’s 87th governor from 2004 to 2011, made history as the second woman to hold the office in the state’s history. Her death followed a brief illness, and the news has left many across the state reflecting on her legacy of service and leadership.

In response to her passing, Governor Ned Lamont issued a directive to honor Rell by lowering the U.S. and state flags to half-staff. Flags were flown at half-staff at the Connecticut State Capitol, along with all other state-operated buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state. Lamont also called on individuals, businesses, schools, and municipalities to lower their flags as a sign of respect. 

Rell served Connecticut for more than 20 years, first as a member of the House of Representatives, then as Lieutenant Governor, and finally as Governor.

On Tuesday, December 3, the Connecticut State Capitol became a place of reflection and remembrance as Governor Rell lay in state. Members of the public gathered throughout the day, paying their respects to the woman who had served as a guiding figure for the state in times of challenge and triumph. 

Later in the afternoon,  a Mass of Christian Burial was held at the Cathedral of Saint Joseph in Hartford. The Mass brought together friends, family, colleagues, and countless Connecticut residents who came to offer prayers and reflections on Rell’s impact on the state. 

A private interment ceremony followed at the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, where Governor Rell was laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Lou Rell, a U.S. Navy veteran. It was a quiet, solemn moment, one that marked the end of an era of public service for Rell and the beginning of a new chapter in Connecticut’s history without her.

The funeral services were a time for Connecticut to pause and reflect on the life of a woman who had been a trailblazer for women in politics, a dedicated public servant, and a beloved figure across the state.

Here are some photos from the funeral services at the Capitol, capturing the heartfelt tributes and shared sense of loss that many felt during this difficult time for the state of Connecticut.

----