LEXINGTON, Ky. — News of the sudden death of Republican Representative Andy Barr's wife Carol continues to stun the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Eleanor Carol Leavell Barr died suddenly at the family's home Tuesday, June 16. She was 39 years old.
Barr's released a statement Wednesday afternoon. It said, ""At this time of tremendous grief and pain, we ask for prayers for our beautiful, dear and precious Carol, the greatest, most selfless and giving wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend anyone could ever have.
We also ask for love and prayers for Carol's greatest legacy — her loving and devoted daughters Eleanor and Mary Clay — through whom Carol's extraordinary life, high character and irrepressible spirit will continue.
In this moment of profound grief and heartbreak, we are so grateful for the gift and blessing of Carol's life, for her strong faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for comfort of fond memories and her victory in heaven and for all those who have surrounded Carol's family, the girls and I with beautiful expressions of love, compassion, and sympathy."
Since 2013, Barr has represented Kentucky's sixth district and is running for re-election. A cause of death has not been given for Mrs. Barr.
Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell addressed Barr's death on the Senate floor. He said, "“To meet Carol Barr was to instantly like her. Her warm personality filled the room and uplifted everybody. Her faith, her love of family, and her dedication to her community were evident. Through her own career and her work with Andy, she poured her time and talents into giving back to her neighbors in the Sixth District.
Mac Brown, chairman of the Republican Party of Kentucky wrote, "Our hearts go out to the Barr family at this tragic news. While there are no words that can heal the pain of losing a loved one, we pray together that God will comfort Congressman Andy Barr, their daughters, and the entire family through this very difficult time.”
Agriculture Commissioner, Ryan Quarles (R) said, "“As a Scott County native, I have known Carol my entire life. Carol was a valued member of our community, a wife, and, above all, a mother to two daughters. Every time I saw her, she had a smile on her face, which shined like the Kentucky sun. I mourn the loss of my friend and cannot imagine the level of grief Andy and his family are experiencing. My prayers are with Andy and his daughters during this time. I ask that all of Kentucky join me in praying for them.”