Representatives Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren, Myron Tsosie and Senator Theresa Hatathlie today offered condolences to the family and loved ones of former Rep. Sylvia Laughter of Kayenta, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 63.
Rep. Laughter served from 1999-2005 in the House.
Rep. Laughter remained active on the Navajo Nation as a private consultant, including recently helping secure a new building for the Navajo Radio Station, according to family members.
“We are saddened to hear of the passing of Representative Sylvia Laughter,” stated Blackwater-Nygren, Tsosie and Hatathlie. “She worked tirelessly to represent her district and continued to make an impact in our community after her service in the Legislature. She was a true trailblazer for other Navajo women to serve in the Legislature. It’s heartbreaking to lose such a humble true Diné Asdzání Naat’áanii. We send our deepest condolences and prayers of comfort to her family and loved ones.”
Rep. Laughter’s survivors include two daughters, Tasha Vlock and Nikki Guminiak, both of Mesa, and seven sisters. She will be laid to rest in Mesa.