Flags in Maine are flying at half-staff this week, in remembrance of John Richardson, Jr. who once served as the Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives.

Governor Janet Mills directed the United States and State of Maine flags to be lowered to half-staff beginning Tuesday morning, until Thursday, June 25th, in remembrance of Richardson.

"From his tireless work in the Legislature to his leadership at the Department of Economic and Community Development and far beyond," Mills said in a media release, " John epitomized the heart and soul of public service."

A lawyer, by trade, Richardson was first elected to the Maine House of Representatives in 1998 and was elected the 97th Speaker of the House in 2005. His appointment to the DECD came under the leadership of Governor John Baldacci. According to an obituary in the BDN, he died unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 16th, at the age of 62. Richardson leaves behind a wife and three children, as well as his father, and two brothers.

Remain-in vehicle funeral services are planned for Wednesday, June 24th at the State House in Augusta.

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