Former WV lawmaker Dr. Margaret Staggers has died at 80

By RealWV Staff,

Former member of the West Virginia House of Delegates and physician Dr. Margaret Staggers died Thursday, just 11 days before her 81st birthday. 

In a written statement from the West Virginia Democratic Party, released after the announcement was made of Staggers’ passing, Chair Mike Pushkin said, “Margaret Staggers lived a life devoted to helping others – whether it was in the emergency room or in the House of Delegates.” 

“She understood that public service is about showing up for people when they need you most,” Pushkin added. “Her commitment to public health, education, and community safety left a lasting impact on Fayette County and our state.”

Born in Maryland at the Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Margaret Staggers was the daughter of United States Congressman Harley Orrin Staggers. Margaret Staggers would follow her father into public service, by representing Fayette County in the House of Delegates.  Prior to that, Staggers served as a Delegate to the Democratic National Committee in 1976.

In a separate written statement, also released Thursday, Gov. Patrick Morrisey said, “Dr. Margaret Staggers devoted her life to caring for others and serving the people of West Virginia.”

“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” Morrisey added. “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.”