Former Senator Passes Away

Capitol Connection February 11, 2008

Former Senator Geo-Karis has diedState Senator Adeline Geo-Karis passed away Sunday, February 10 at Glenbrook Hospital in Glenview, Illinois.

Affectionately dubbed “Geo” by her friends and colleagues, Senator Geo-Karis was held in the highest regard by both Republicans and Democrats for her 33 years of dedicated public service in the Illinois General Assembly.

Geo-Karis began her political career in the Illinois House of Representatives, where she served from 1973 – 79. She then moved on to serve in the Illinois Senate, where she became the first woman in Illinois history to serve in Senate leadership.

Born in Tegeas, Greece, Senator Geo-Karis was extremely proud of her Greek heritage, and throughout her tenure as a public official she was an avid supporter of the Greek community. However, Geo-Karis was quick to point out that she served America as a lieutenant commander with top secret clearance in the U.S. Naval Reserves.

A political icon and trailblazer, Senator Geo-Karis will be greatly missed. She was an inspiration to women and men everywhere for her many achievements, accomplishments and lifelong service to the people of Illinois.