State leaders mourn loss of former House Speaker, Senate President, Joplin Mayor Ron Richard

Ron Richard, R-Joplin, the first Missourian to serve as Speaker of the House and Senate President, died today.

These are the few of the statements that have been released this morning:

Jasper County GOP-  Ron Richard was a powerhouse for Missourians. We were blessed and proud to have him in Southwest Missouri and to be able to share his talents with all of Missouri. He will be missed immensely. Our prayers are with Patty and his entire family during this time.

Gov. Mike Parson- Missouri has lost a strong leader and dedicated public servant with the passing of Ron Richard. Ron was one of few great men to have served as both President of the Missouri Senate and Speaker of the Missouri House during his public service career.

Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft- "We are saddened to learn of the passing of former Senator Ron Richard, a former Missouri Speaker of the House and President Pro Tem of the Senate. Katie and I send our thoughts and prayers to his family."

Former Gov. Matt Blunt- Ron Richard was a good friend who truly loved Missouri. This is a loss for our state and we will be praying for his family.

Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe- Claudia and I are heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend, Ron Richard. Few elected officials have been a more effective advocate for Missourians than Ron. Our state was blessed to have his steady, consistent leadership. I also consider myself blessed to call him a friend and will miss him dearly. Ron has taught me more about responsible leadership and public service than any other person in the Capitol. He was a source of wisdom, advice, and counsel that cannot be replaced. Our prayers are with his wife, Patty, and his family as we mourn the loss of a great man and Missourian.

Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden- I am so sorry to hear of the passing of former Missouri Senate President Ron Richard. Ronny had a gruff exterior, but was as loyal, as loving and as sincere as anyone I have ever known. His legacy will live on for decades to come. Praying for Patty and his family today!

Jason Rosenbaum, St. Louis Public Radio- Ron Richard was a giant in Missouri legislative politics. The first and only person to serve both as Speaker and Senate President Pro Tem. RIP and condolence to his family.

(Note: This post will be updated.)