GOODYEAR, AZ — Goodyear Mayor Georgia Lord died Sunday afternoon, city officials confirmed to ABC15. She was 83.
In a news release, the city of Goodyear said Mayor Lord died peacefully at her home Sunday afternoon surrounded by her family.
She recently fell at her home and broke her hip, the city said. Following that event, her health steadily declined.
Mayor Lord first moved to Goodyear in 1997 with her late husband Col. Ronald Lord (USAF, retired) after living in many different locations both nationally and internationally as a military spouse. They previously had assignments throughout Europe, the Far East, and stateside at the Pentagon.
Lord began her career in local government when she was elected to the Goodyear City Council in 2005. She eventually became Goodyear's mayor in 2011, a position she held until her death.
“I found public service to be rewarding. I saw for myself how local government shapes everyday lives, creates a community, and impacts overall quality of life. I really wanted to be part of that excitement,” Mayor Lord once said. “It didn’t occur to me initially, and even until after the election, that I would be the first female mayor of the city of Goodyear. I am pleased to have the opportunity to demonstrate to Goodyear’s young women that anything is possible."
Along with public service, Lord was described as a multi-dimensional woman with a distinctive background.
"She was a collegiate cheerleader at Michigan State University, a devoted mother of four, a proud military wife, and a successful realtor. She was also a fashion model, spoke fluent German, and shared in the intrigue of life alongside her husband when he served as a military attaché in Europe during the Cold War," the release said.
Georgia Lord is survived by four children, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Governor Doug Ducey announced Sunday evening that all state flags will be lowered to half-staff Monday, December 13 in honor of Goodyear Mayor Georgia Lord.
Gov. Ducey released the following statement about Mayor Lord.
“Arizona is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mayor Georgia Lord. She was an inspiring woman and a proven leader who cared deeply about the City of Goodyear and the men, women and families who called it home.
Under Mayor Lord, Goodyear was transformed into an economic juggernaut, attracting new businesses and residents. Her care and love for her city was apparent to all, and she was frequently honored by community organizations for her service and accomplishments.
Mayor Lord was dedicated to the people of Goodyear and served them until the end. Her more than 15-year career in civic service is rooted in her city’s economic growth as she used her keen business sense to create opportunity for Goodyear’s citizens. As Goodyear’s first female mayor, her legacy as an incredibly passionate public servant will live on.
I offer my deepest condolences and prayers to her family and loved ones. In her memory, I’ve ordered all state flags be lowered to half-staff.”
