Commentary

Rep. Thyra Stevenson passed away this week in a Coeur d’Alene hospital after suffering a heart attack last week. She was 75.

Thyra was an extraordinary woman. First elected to the Legislature in 2012, she served on a number of critical committees such as JFAC and the House Revenue & Taxation Committee. Folks recognized her intellectual skills and ability to dig into complex situations.

She grew up in Lewiston, but ventured forth into the world to acquire a wide range of skills and experiences. Thyra was an officer and pilot in the US Coast Guard; and became a qualified pilot in the private sector as well – certified to fly DC-9s and B757 airplanes, among others.

Thyra taught Spanish and literature at the University of Washington after earning a PhD in Latin American Literature. And, just for good measure, she was an accomplished performer on the bagpipes.

There is so much more that could be written about Thyra Stevenson, but it is important to honor her most important qualities: She was a strong, independent woman who was willing to fight for our core values. She was one of the most dependable friends we had at the Idaho Legislature.

We are going to miss her greatly.