In 2013, we wrote about the time Sarasota County commissioner Nancy Detert—then a stat senator—headed to Tallahassee for the Florida Legislature’s regular session and wound up speaking to a whole new group of constituents. At the time, District 28—which Detert was elected to represent in 2008—was gone. Redistricting shaved off her portion of Manatee County and entrusted her with all of Sarasota County, plus a Gulfside hunk of Charlotte County.

But it made no difference to Detert, who passed away this week at age 78 and was known for giving a voice to vulnerable communities.

“I’ve always taken the title ‘state’ senator seriously—what’s good for the whole state’s generally good for us,” Detert said at the time. She wouldn't be shifting her approach because of those new district lines, adding, “I’m pretty much me.”

At the time, she also rebuked the notion that state government should use tax money to lure companies to Florida—one of Republican Gov. Rick Scott’s chief tactics. “It doesn’t work anymore,” she said. “I’m tired of outbidding Kansas. Just go there in February and see how you like it.”

That same year, she sponsored a bill to allow children in foster care to remain there until age 21 instead of 18, allowing for a better chance at lifelong success outside of the system.

And in 2016, she marked the opening of a new residential facility for adults with developmental disabilities at a ribbon-cutting ceremony Loveland Center. It was named the Nancy Detert Residences at Loveland Village in honor of Detert’s support and advocacy for the project.

Detert served in the Florida House from 1998 through 2006, and on the Sarasota County School Board before that. She was also elected to the Florida Senate in 2008, where she served until 2016 when she ran for an open Sarasota County Commission seat and won.

Sarasota County officials posted the news of her death on Facebook yesterday, where friends and colleagues quickly flooded the platform with their support and condolences.

Her colleagues on Twitter did the same.

Florida State Rep. Chip LaMarca tweeted,

Rest in peace Nancy Detert, a true public servant. I have the opportunity to work with Nancy as County Commissioners, only after visiting her as a senator and house member on many issues over the years. She was tough, but fair. #RIP pic.twitter.com/CXBWvjxv0n

— Chip LaMarca❗️ (@ChipLaMarca) April 6, 2023

I am saddened to hear about the passing of Nancy Detert. As one of Sarasota’s most dedicated public servants, she fought tirelessly for what she believed in and will be greatly missed. Jen and I are praying for her family, friends, and all who knew her. https://t.co/13G4QQLb6F

— Congressman Greg Steube (@RepGregSteube) April 6, 2023

Saddened by the death of Sarasota County Commissioner Nancy Detert. She was a beloved public servant, a worthy primary opponent with a quick wit, and a friend. She will be missed by her constituents, colleagues, family and friends.

— Rep. Vern Buchanan (@VernBuchanan) April 6, 2023

It is with deep sadness that we report that former Senator Nancy Detert has passed away. Senator Detert cared deeply about our industry and we are forever grateful for her service and her support. She will be missed! #FlaPol

More at https://t.co/ShBAZ2r8S9 pic.twitter.com/CI14VZsFNF

— Film Florida (@FilmFlorida) April 6, 2023

Detert’s position will be filled through an appointment by Gov. Ron DeSantis. Details regarding her forthcoming memorial services will be made public as information becomes available.