Sheila Ellis Hixson, age 89, died on November 6, 2022, in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

She is survived by her two daughters, two sons-in-law, and five grandchildren. She's preceded in her death by her two sons.

She was born on February 9, 1933 in L'Anse, Michigan. She graduated from Northern Michigan University with a degree in Social Work. Upon graduation, she became a Head Start Teacher in the Detroit School System. In the early1960s she campaigned for U.S. Representative William D. Ford of Michigan which then brought her to the D.C. metro area.

She was then recruited to work as an Aide for the Democratic National Committee and ultimately was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates in Annapolis. She was the longest serving woman in the Maryland General Assembly and the first woman to become Chair of the Ways and Means Committee.

During her tenure in Annapolis she advocated for gun safety, the rights of same-sex marriage, repeal of the death penalty, and progressive tax policy.

The family will hold services at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful for gifts made to the Steven A Cohen Military Family Clinic at Easterseals . Please check the "Direct My Donation" to the Cohen Clinic and and enter Sheila Hixson as the honoree.