Longtime state Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante dies after battle with pancreatic cancer

State Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante, a Democrat who represented Essex, Rockport, and Manchester-by-the-Sea and Gloucester, died on Thursday, according to her Facebook profile.

Ferrante, 53, had been sick with pancreatic cancer, according to the announcement.

"First elected to the legislature in 2008, Ann-Margaret dedicated her legislative career to ensuring that Cape Ann always had a seat at the table in legislative matters; always focused on our fishermen, jobs and economic development, and helping those in need," the statement reads.

Gov. Maura Healey announced on Thursday that flags at all state buildings will be lowered to half-staff beginning Thursday.

The order applies to main or administration buildings of each public institution of the commonwealth, such as town and city halls, other state-owned or state-controlled buildings and all state military installations.

"I'm heartbroken over the loss of my dear friend State Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante," Healey said in a statement. "The proud daughter and granddaughter of Gloucester fishermen, Ann-Margaret was a fierce champion for the people of Cape Ann for more than 15 years, always advocating for our fishermen, making Gloucester a hub for marine biotechnology and investing in vocational training to set students and local businesses up for success."

"Her leadership was marked by integrity, compassion and an unwavering belief in the potential of her community. Across the commonwealth, colleagues knew her as a thoughtful policymaker and a determined advocate," said Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll. "But to Gloucester, she was something even more: she was a champion, a protector and a constant source of pride."

House Speaker Ron Mariano, D-3rd Norfolk, also released a statement honoring Ferrante on Thursday.

"For nearly 17 years, Ann-Margaret served the people of Cape Ann as their State Representative with a relentless commitment to helping those in need," Mariano said. "Ann-Margaret was a valued colleague in the House who easily built trust amongst her many friends here, always working to build coalitions and erase divisions to help the commonwealth's most vulnerable residents — especially children, seniors, and in recent years, as a voice for patients."

She was reelected to her ninth term earlier this month.

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