Former state Delegate Margaret Staggers died on New Years Day.
Staggers, a Democrat, served in the House of Delegates from 2006 to 2014 and then from 2018 to 2020, representing communities in Fayette County. During her first go-round, she served as an assistant majority whip.
Staggers, 80, also was an emergency physician at Beckley Appalachian Regional Hospital. And she served as the medical director of multiple emergency medical services and emergency operations centers in Fayette, Wyoming, Raleigh and Boone counties
“Margaret Staggers lived a life devoted to helping others—whether it was in the emergency room or in the House of Delegates,” said West Virginia Democratic Party Chairman Mike Pushkin, who served with Staggers as a delegate.
“She understood that public service is about showing up for people when they need you most. Her commitment to public health, education, and community safety left a lasting impact on Fayette County and our state.”
She was the daughter of Harley Staggers, who served 16 terms in the United States House of Representatives from 1949 to 1981, and his wife Mary Casey Staggers.
Margaret Staggers served as a delegate to the 1976 Democratic National Convention at Madison Square Garden in New York City where she voted to nominate U.S. Senator Robert Byrd as the Democratic candidate for that year’s presidential election.
“West Virginia has lost a dedicated public servant. A physician and member of the House of Delegates, Dr. Margaret Staggers devoted her life to caring for others and serving the people of West Virginia,” Gov. Patrick Morrisey said today.
“From serving as President of the West Virginia chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians to her work with the American Heart Association, Dr. Staggers brought compassion and expertise to every role she held. Her service as a physician, educator, and legislator leaves a lasting legacy, especially in southern West Virginia, where she was widely respected by both her patients and constituents.