Edna Fairbanks-Williams died on May 10, 2010 as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident. Her passing leaves a gaping hole in the corps of people who advocate for Vermont’s most vulnerable citizens.

Edna was an unassuming person who devoted much of her life to advocating on behalf of needy Vermonters. Her obituary has been widely published so I will not recount it here.

I only knew Edna over the final six years of her life, as she traveled the state making known the needs of the less fortunate—at the statehouse, at VLIAC, at the Medicaid Advisory Board, and at numerous public hearings. Her mere presence made a statement to all decision-makers that we needed to pay attention.

Edna represented the absolute best in Vermont. She was selfless—choosing to spend her time and resources traveling the State of Vermont in the interests of others. She was a clear, but respectful communicator—always pointing out the issues at hand, but respecting divergent interests and the complexities of the process. She was dogged. Edna was everywhere, carrying the message that we cannot forget the most vulnerable among us.

Vermont has a long history of caring. Across the fifty states, we are among the more generous in our benefits and policies. Part of that has been driven by exceptional advocacy, led in many ways by Edna, reminding all of us that, as a people, both in Vermont and nationally, we are defined by how well we care for those with the greatest need.

It is ironic that Edna’s death came during the closing week of one of the most challenging legislative sessions ever. The fact that social programs were reasonably well protected during these horrible times is a testament to her work. She has truly made life better for all Vermonters.

Thank you Edna.

Steve R. Dale, DCF Commissioner