INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Senate Minority Leader Greg Taylor (D-Indianapolis) issued the following statement on behalf of the Senate Democratic Caucus upon the passing of former Senate Minority Leader Dennis Neary:

“We are heartbroken by the loss of Senator Dennis Neary, who served the state of Indiana with unwavering dedication for more than 16 years. Senator Neary was a true public servant, committed to improving the lives of his constituents and all Hoosiers.

“Even after retiring from the legislature, Senator Neary’s presence at the Statehouse was constant. Whether working as a lobbyist for the Indiana Health Care Association or simply brightening our Fridays with donuts, he remained a valued and active member of our community,” said Taylor.

Elected to the Senate in 1976, Senator Neary quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Democratic Caucus chairman in 1980 and minority leader by 1988. In 1992, he stepped down to focus on his family, yet his impact on Indiana remained long-lasting.

As a legislator, Senator Neary was a passionate champion for education, human services and transportation. His 24 years as an elementary school teacher at Long Beach School fueled his advocacy for Indiana’s youth. He prioritized health care for vulnerable Hoosiers, a commitment he carried into his post-legislative work with the Indiana Health Care Association.

Senator Neary was instrumental in creating the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District, which helped preserve the South Shore Line. His vision continues to shape the region today, as seen with the recent opening of the South Shore Line’s Double Track.

“Senator Neary was a selfless leader, always working for the good of his community,” Taylor said. “His peers recognized his dedication, honoring him with the Sagamore of the Wabash, the highest distinction in Indiana. His warmth, his infectious positivity and his commitment to mentoring the next generation – especially the interns he guided – made him a beloved figure in the Statehouse.”

Senator Neary’s passion for service has inspired multiple generations of his family to follow in his footsteps, and his legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.

His contributions to public service, leadership and dedication to his colleagues and constituents will never be forgotten. The halls of the Statehouse will feel his absence deeply, but his influence will endure as we continue the work he began.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, friends, colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. Senator Dennis Neary’s spirit will live on in the mission of service he embodied, and we are honored to carry that forward.”

Visitation:

Visitation for Sen. Dennis Neary will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, and from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 25, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

Funeral:

The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 25, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel.