Emily Couric, state senator and Virginia Democratic Party Co-Chairwoman, succumbed to a difficult battle with pancreatic cancer yesterday morning at her Charlottesville home. She was 54 years old.
After her diagnosis in July 2000, Couric dropped out of the running for Virginia's lieutenant governor, a race many thought she would win.
Couric was elected to the Virginia Senate in 1996. She focused on the health, education and state employee issues crucial to her home district, including those affecting the University.
The normal life expectancy following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer is less than six months, however Couric successfully carried a full load of bills during the 2001 General Assembly session last winter and remained active in local community groups through this summer and fall.
"She was a principled legislator who fought for what she believed. Emily took that same determination in her fight against cancer, and was an inspiration to many Virginians," Gov. James S. Gilmore III said in an official press release yesterday. "I know that her colleagues in the state senate will miss her dearly, as will all of us who knew her."
During her career in the senate, Couric championed legislation making Virginia the first state to require health insurers to pay for colon cancer screening after her brother in-law died of the disease. She also worked to create advanced math and technology seals of recognition for Virginia high school diplomas.
Emily Couric "was a strong advocate for the University of Virginia," University President John T. Casteen III said at the Board of Visitors' meeting. "Together, the University community joins in offering its condolences to the Couric/Beller family - especially to her husband George Beller, head of the University's cardiovascular division, and her sons - at this sad time."
Beyond her legislative triumphs, Couric is remembered for her honorable personal character and dedication to local community causes. Couric was involved with the Boys & Girls Club, Jefferson Area Board for Aging, Virginia Festival of the Book, and Camp Holiday Trails, among other organizations.
Democrats across the state expressed a deep grief and admiration for Couric as an outstanding political figure and friend.
"She was one that comes along in a lifetime," said Virginia Del. Mitch Van Yahres (D-Charlottesville). "I've always considered her one of the most compassionate individuals I know ... She had a tremendous organizational ability and dedication to her job. It was a blessing to have known her."
Couric made her home in Charlottesville for over 20 years. Before her Senate election, she served as 1990-91 chairwoman of the Charlottesville School Board.
Couric is survived by her husband, George Beller; her two sons, Jeff and Ray Wadlow; siblings Clara Couric Batchelor, John M. Couric Jr. and Katie Couric of the NBC-TV "Today Show"; step-children Michael Beller, Amy Beller and Leslie Beller; and several step-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held Monday at 1 p.m. in St. Paul's Memorial Church on University Avenue. Interment will be private.
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