Rep. Jo Ann Davis Dies Of Breast Cancer

Rep. Jo Ann Davis (R-Va.) has passed away from breast cancer, her office announced Saturday. First elected in November 2000, Davis has been battling breast cancer for several years.

Davis is the fourth House member to die this year, including Reps. Paul Gillmor (R-Ohio), Charlie Norwood (R-Ga.) and Juanita Millender-McDonald (D-Calif.). Sen. Craig Thomas (R-Wyo.) also passed away in June.

Here is the official statement from her office:

"Congresswoman Jo Ann Davis died at her Gloucester home this morning after a courageous battle with breast cancer. She was 57. Davis was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and had a re-occurrence earlier this year.

Davis had been receiving breast cancer treatment at Duke University and just recently had received positive reports on her condition. However, during the last week Davis’ health took a turn for the worse."

Virginia GOP Chairman John Hager has released a statement on Davis' passing:

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Congresswoman Jo Ann Davis after her long struggle with cancer. Virginia has lost a passionate advocate for better government, and her legacy as a defender of conservative principles will always be remembered. I pray for her family, and mourn with our friends in the 1st District.”