We have reflected on the life of Bellaire’s own Jack Cera since his passing July 13, at age 69 after battling cancer for more than two years.

A trusted public servant, Cera represented Eastern Ohio in the state House of Representatives from 1983-96 and again from 2011-20. During his time at the Statehouse, he served on many committees — especially those related to energy — and as Minority Whip for a year.

More importantly, though, he was always willing to reach across the aisle. Cera knew that bipartisanship was a key to getting things done, and he never hesitated to listen to a perspective that was different from his own. The more he knew about what others thought, the more likely he was to arrive at a compromise that would benefit everyone — including people in all parts of the Buckeye State, not just those back home in Belmont County.

From helping to expand the state’s flood warning system in the wake of the deadly 1990 flash flooding in Shadyside to advocating for oil and gas severance tax dollars being returned to the counties where the drilling was done, he worked tirelessly for the people of Eastern Ohio.

Cera was a true statesman whose integrity and dedication helped make Ohio a better place for future generations. May he rest in peace, and may his family take comfort in his legacy of service to the people of Ohio.