Congressman Andy Barr’s wife Carol Barr dies suddenly

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - The Office of Congressman Andy Barr has confirmed that his wife, Carol Barr, has died suddenly on Tuesday at their home.

Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers was also at the scene for a while. He could not tell WKYT any information about the investigation.

Other officers told WKYT that it was a family situation and the family would release information.

Family later asked WKYT to leave the area and the congressman’s media representative asked for the family’s privacy to be respected.

Congressman Barr may release a more detailed statement at a later date.

Carol was a healthcare representative for Pfizer and previously served as the executive director for the Henry Clay Center for Statesmanship. She grew up in Georgetown and graduated from the University of Kentucky.

Condolences for the Barr family poured in Tuesday night:

“My heart goes out to Andy on the sudden passing of his beautiful wife and wonderful mother to their two girls, Carol," said Auditor Mike Harmon in a statement. "My family and I ask all Kentuckians to extend your heartfelt sympathy to the Barr and Leavell families, not only now but in the days and weeks to come. As written in Proverbs 18:22, ‘He who finds a wife finds a good thing. And obtains favor from the Lord.’”

“Elaine and I are stunned and heartbroken at the news of Carol’s passing," said U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. "Her warmth filled whatever room she entered and her contributions made Kentucky a better place for all of us. And to Eleanor and Mary Clay, Carol was a wonderful role model and source of constant love. We send our sincere condolences to Andy, their family and his staff at this terribly painful time.”

“As a Scott County native, I have known Carol my entire life,” said Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles. “Carol was a valued member of our community, a wife, and, above all, a mother to two daughters. Every time I saw her, she had a smile on her face, which shined like the Kentucky sun. I mourn the loss of my friend and cannot imagine the level of grief Andy and his family are experiencing. My prayers are with Andy and his daughters during this time. I ask that all of Kentucky join me in praying for them.”

“Cynthia and I extend our deepest condolences to our friend Andy Barr and his sweet daughters," said U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers. "Carol was always a joy to be around. She had a smile that lit up every room, radiating with the love she had for her family and our Commonwealth. Unexpected tragedies of this measure are difficult to understand, but we pray for peace and strength for the entire Barr family.”

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