Gov. Evers orders flags to half-staff for former Rep. Betty Jo Nelsen

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Flags in Wisconsin are flying at half-staff Monday in honor of former state Rep. Betty Jo Nelsen, who passed away Oct. 17 at the age of 89. Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #245 to commemorate her time in public service.

Nelsen was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly in 1979 and served six terms, representing districts in Milwaukee County. She became the first woman elected as minority leader in 1987.

Her career included roles in President George H. W. Bush’s administration, where she was nominated to serve as assistant secretary of agriculture.

"In the weeks since her passing, our thoughts are with former Rep. Nelsen’s husband, Jim, her children, grandchildren and all her loved ones as they mourn her loss and celebrate her incredible legacy," Evers said in a Monday, Dec. 2 press release.

Services are planned Monday in Milwaukee. EO #245 can be read below: