Senate Democratic Leader Kirt comments on passing of Sen. Richard Lerblance

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt issued the following statement honoring Richard Lerblance, who passed at his home in McAlester on July 25, at the age of 80. Lerblance was in the Oklahoma Senate from 2003 to 2012. He served as Assistant Majority Floor Leader, chaired the Energy Committee, was a member of the Education, Judiciary, and Appropriations committees, as well as the Appropriations Subcommittee for Public Safety. Lerblance was a member of the House from 2002 to 2003. 

“Richard Lerblance lived a life of service to his community, the state of Oklahoma, and the Muscogee Nation. While in the Senate, he championed many critical issues, including prison overcrowding, water rights, and improved transportation infrastructure. He also advocated for seniors and raised awareness about Alzheimer’s.

“It was my great privilege to meet Senator Lerblance several times and I thoroughly enjoyed hearing him speak in McAlester at a community event. He had a zest for life and loved Oklahoma. I’m grateful for his service, and my prayers are with his family during this difficult time.” – Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City.

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CUTLINE: Sen. Richard Lerblance, D-Hartshorne, served in the Oklahoma Senate from 2003 to 2012.

For more information, contact:  

Sen. Julia Kirt at 405-521-5636 or Julia.Kirt@oksenate.gov