Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex to be lowered to half-staff on Tuesday, January 26, 2021, to honor the life and service of former state Senator Shirley Johnson.

“My administration and the entire state of Michigan recognizes the service and legacy of former Senator Shirley Johnson,” Whitmer said. “As a fierce leader, Senator Shirley Johnson’s impact will live on through her accomplishments and work in the legislature to champion mental health reforms and women’s health care issues. My thoughts are with Senator Johnson’s family, friends and colleagues.”

Shirley Johnson, served from 1999 to 2006 as the state senator in the 13th District and served in the House of Representatives from 1981 to 1998. In her final term in the Senate, she became the first woman to chair an Appropriations committee.

Former state Senator Shirley Johnson passed away at the age of 83 years old.

The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor and selfless service of former state Senator Shirley Johnson by lowering flags to half-staff. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff.

To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.

Flags should be returned to full-staff on Wednesday, January 27, 2021.