Governor Mike Dunleavy and First Lady Rose Dunleavy issued the following statement on the passing of Nome Mayor James "Richard" Beneville:

“Richard Beneville was a true leader who left a positive impact in Nome that will never be forgotten,” said Governor Dunleavy. “His years of public service – serving three terms as Nome’s Mayor – and true love for the City of Nome exemplified his Alaskan spirit. Nome will not be the same without Richard. Rose and I extend our deepest sympathies to the Beneville family and the entire Nome community for their loss.”

Governor Dunleavy has directed Alaska state flags to fly at half-staff in honor of Richard Beneville on Monday, May 18, 2020.