M. Jodi Rell, who became Connecticut governor after her predecessor resigned, dies at 78

Associated Press

Former Connecticut Gov. M. Jodi Rell has died at age 78. Rell’s family say she died Wednesday at a Florida hospital following a brief illness. The Republican was lieutenant governor in 2004 when Gov. John G. Rowland resigned amid a corruption investigation. She took over the office and then won election in 2006. She served until 2011. Her successor was Democrat Dannel Malloy. He says she returned “a sense of decency and honesty to state government at a time when both were sorely needed.” Rell was also known for her candor and compassion.