Former Pittsburgh City Council President Darlene Harris, whose career in public service spanned decades, has died.Harris, a Democrat, served on the council for 13 years, representing North Side neighborhoods until 2019.Harris was also known for her love of animals, sponsoring a free spay-and-neuter program for dogs and cats owned by Pittsburgh residents.Mayor Corey O’Connor, who served on the council alongside Harris, released the following statement:”I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of my former colleague on City Council, Darlene Harris. My heart is with her family, children and grandchildren and the North Side community, whom she loved.”Darlene led a life of service to her community as an advocate, school board director and City Council member that spanned over 40 years. Born in Brighton Heights and growing up in Spring Hill, she was a North Sider through and through.”Nobody fought for their communities like Darlene Harris. Never forgetting her working-class roots, she was also a staunch supporter of local unions and building trades and was renowned for her commitment to animal rights.”I was glad to be her friend and colleague on City Council. From her longtime career of service, she leaves a legacy as a community champion, North Sider and mother and grandmother.”Download the WTAE app to stay connected with breaking news. Sign up for our email newsletters to get breaking news in your inbox.

PITTSBURGH —

Former Pittsburgh City Council President Darlene Harris, whose career in public service spanned decades, has died.

Harris, a Democrat, served on the council for 13 years, representing North Side neighborhoods until 2019.

Harris was also known for her love of animals, sponsoring a free spay-and-neuter program for dogs and cats owned by Pittsburgh residents.

Mayor Corey O’Connor, who served on the council alongside Harris, released the following statement:

“I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of my former colleague on City Council, Darlene Harris. My heart is with her family, children and grandchildren and the North Side community, whom she loved.

“Darlene led a life of service to her community as an advocate, school board director and City Council member that spanned over 40 years. Born in Brighton Heights and growing up in Spring Hill, she was a North Sider through and through.

“Nobody fought for their communities like Darlene Harris. Never forgetting her working-class roots, she was also a staunch supporter of local unions and building trades and was renowned for her commitment to animal rights.

“I was glad to be her friend and colleague on City Council. From her longtime career of service, she leaves a legacy as a community champion, North Sider and mother and grandmother.”

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