Former Nevada state senator Joyce Woodhouse has died

LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Former Nevada state senator Joyce Woodhouse has died, state officials announced.

Gov. Joe Lombardo released a statement on her passing.

“I’m very saddened to hear the passing of Joyce Woodhouse,” Lombardo said. “She was an unparalleled advocate for Nevada’s children, helping us pass bipartisan education reforms that will brighten the future of our state’s next generation.”

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Lombardo said Woodhouse’s work ethic was unmatched as a longtime educator and legislator.

“As a long time educator and legislator, Joyce’s work ethic was unmatched serving in leadership roles for multiple key education commissions long after her retirement as she fought to make Nevada a better place to live,” he said. “Joyce’s contributions will make an impact on Nevada for many years to come.”

Legislative career

Woodhouse joined the Nevada Senate in 2006. She brought experience from her years in the Clark County School District as an elementary school teacher.

Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro said Woodhouse was more than a colleague.

“She was a kind, yet strong force within our caucus, a consistent presence during tough times, and a tireless advocate for children and all people of Nevada,” Cannizzaro said in a statement on behalf of the Nevada Senate Democrats.

Cannizzaro said Woodhouse mentored many leaders over the years in the caucus.

“She showed that real strength comes from being prepared and that progress depends on the conversations had around the toughest issues,” Cannizzaro said. “People turned to her when a bill was stalled or when things felt uncertain. Her door was always open, and her advice was practical, thoughtful, and rooted in her deep love for Nevada.”

Woodhouse was inducted into the Senate Hall of Fame.

“Her induction into the Senate Hall of Fame was a fitting recognition of a lifetime spent serving others with integrity, compassion, and unwavering purpose,” Cannizzaro said. “Joyce leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shape Nevada for generations.”

U.S. Sen. Jacky Rosen also released a statement.

“I’m extremely saddened to hear the news of State Senator Joyce Woodhouse’s passing,” Rosen said. “Joyce brought her years of experience as an elementary school teacher to the Nevada Senate and was a leading advocate for our students and public schools. Our entire state is better off thanks to her service. She will be dearly missed.”

U.S. Rep. Dina Titus recalled on how she served with Woodhouse in the Nevada State Legislature.

“I am saddened to hear about the passing of Joyce Woodhouse, who I served with in the Nevada State Legislature,” Titus said. “She was a fierce champion for our students and teachers and just a lovely person. We need more like her in politics.”