Melody Currey, whose diverse political career included time in the East Hartford mayor's office, the General Assembly and the executive branch, died Monday. She was 71.
"There really is nobody else that I know of in state government," says Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, who served with Currey in the state House, "who had such a deep knowledge of the legislative process... and, indeed, she served at all levels."
The Democrat served in the House from 1993-2006, eventually becoming deputy majority leader and deputy speaker. She then served as mayor of East Hartford (2006-10) before holding executive branch leadership positions including DMV commissioner.
In a Facebook post, current East Hartford mayor Mike Walsh writes, "Melody was a wonderful boss, a great mentor, an incredible leader and a dear friend who dedicated her life to the betterment of the East Hartford community. She was a political icon who touched the lives of so many in such a positive way."
Melody Currey is survived by her husband Don, the former East Hartford treasurer, and children Jeff, Becky and Matt. Jeff is a current member of the state House.
