Written By MARK PAVILONS

Accolades abounded following the passing of  Ontario's longest serving representative.

Julia Munro, former MPP for York-Simcoe, passed away last week at age 77. She was the longest-serving female MPP in history, being first elected in 1995.

York-Simcoe MPP  and Attorney General Caroline Mulroney said Julia worked tirelessly to represent the people of York-Simcoe.

“Her passion for helping others started before her life in politics during her career in education. She was always there to listen and lead. She was a great mentor and a dear friend.”

Stephen Lecce, MPP for King-Vaughan and Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and Minister of Infrastructure, expressed his sadness.

“It was with great sadness that I learned of the recent passing of Julia Munro. Ms. Munro was a dedicated public servant who committed herself to advocating on behalf of her constituents and rural communities – including King Township. Her leadership and personal encouragement played an important role in the lives of many, including myself. She will be dearly missed.”

King Mayor Steve Pellegrini said he had the good fortune to know Julia for the past 20 years.

“She was a true friend to King and worked hard for her constituents.”