GLOUCESTER — State Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante, a Democrat who represented Cape Ann on Beacon Hill for about 17 years, died Thursday, Nov. 27, at age 53 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Ferrante, a Gloucester native, had served in the Massachusetts House since 2008, representing the 5th Essex District, which includes Gloucester, Rockport, Essex and Manchester-by-the-Sea. At the time of her death, she was vice chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means and a member of the following committees: the House Committee on Post Audit and Oversight, the House Committee on Operations, Facilities and Building Security, and the House Committee on Steering, Policy and Scheduling
Following her death on Thanksgiving, Governor Maura Healey ordered flags at state buildings lowered to half-staff and called Ferrante “a fierce champion for the people of Cape Ann.”
“She was one of the most selfless people I know, and there was no one more loyal to her friends, family and the constituents she served,” Healey said. Later adding, “I will miss her humor, her guidance, and, most of all, her friendship. My heart goes out to her family, friends, and all who loved her. Massachusetts is a better place because of Ann-Margaret Ferrante.”
Ferrante, the daughter and granddaughter of Gloucester fishermen, built her legislative career around supporting local fishermen, strengthening the regional economy, and expanding opportunities in marine technology and vocational training for students and small businesses.
Congressman Seth Moulton, who represents Massachusetts’ Sixth Congressional District and resides in Salem, also issued a statement mourning her loss.
“I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Ann-Margaret Ferrante. She was a dear friend, an accomplished legislator, and a champion for the people of Cape Ann. Ann-Margaret led with compassion, integrity, and a profound belief in the dignity of every person she represented,” Moulton said in the statement. “Born into a fishing family, she worked tirelessly to ensure our fishermen kept their rightful place in our local economy and community. My thoughts are with her loved ones, her colleagues, and the entire Cape Ann community that she fought for so fiercely. We all have lost a remarkable public servant, and I have lost a dear friend.”
The fire and police chiefs from the Cape Ann communities of Gloucester, Rockport, and Manchester-by-the-Sea issued a joint statement mourning Ferrante’s passing as well.
“The Cape Ann community is extremely saddened by the passing of State Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer,” the chiefs wrote. “Ann-Margaret was a fierce and devoted champion for the people of Cape Ann, and had an empathetic approach to public service that earned the respect of people in every corner of the community. Her continued partnership, collaboration, and advocacy has allowed us as public safety agencies to put our best foot forward to serve our communities. She will be deeply missed.”
At the time of publication, funeral arrangements for Ferrante had not yet been announced. An obituary and further details will be forthcoming, and inquiries may be directed to Dru Tarr at andrew.tarr@mahouse.gov
A special election will also be held at a later date to fill Ferrante’s seat in the 5th Essex District.
