GEORGIA MOURNS THE LOSS OF REP. MANDI BALLINGER, LONGTIME PUBLIC SERVANT AND JUVENILE JUSTICE ADVOCATE
October 12, 2025 | Canton, Georgia — The state of Georgia is in mourning following the heartbreaking passing of State Representative Mandi Ballinger, a devoted public servant, fierce advocate for juvenile justice reform, and a beloved figure in the Canton community. Ballinger, who was serving her seventh term in the Georgia House of Representatives, passed away at the age of [age to be inserted if known], leaving behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the people she served.
The Georgia House of Representatives confirmed her passing in a solemn statement issued early Sunday morning, describing her as a “dedicated leader whose work transformed lives across the state.”
“It is with profound sadness that we share the news of Representative Mandi Ballinger’s passing,” the statement read. “Her tireless work as Chair of the House Judiciary Juvenile Committee has made Georgia a better place for children, families, and communities.”
A Career Defined by Service and Compassion
Representative Ballinger was first elected to the Georgia House in 2012, representing District 23, which encompasses parts of Cherokee County, including her beloved hometown of Canton. Over the course of her legislative career, she built a reputation as a principled, thoughtful lawmaker who worked across the aisle to pursue meaningful policy change — particularly for the state’s most vulnerable youth.
As Chair of the House Judiciary Juvenile Committee, Ballinger led efforts to overhaul Georgia’s juvenile justice system, advocating for alternatives to incarceration, improvements in mental health services, and better outcomes for children in foster care.
“She believed deeply in redemption, in second chances, and in the power of government to do good when led with compassion,” said Speaker of the House Jon Burns. “Georgia’s children had no greater champion.”
Her landmark work included sponsoring the “Raise the Age” legislation, which aimed to change how 17-year-olds are treated in the criminal justice system — a measure that gained bipartisan support and reflected her lifelong dedication to reforming outdated and punitive policies.
Beloved in Her Community
While Ballinger’s impact was felt statewide, her heart always remained in Canton. Constituents described her as approachable, sincere, and tireless — someone who could often be found at local school events, veterans’ ceremonies, church functions, and town hall meetings. She was known for taking the time to listen to every concern, no matter how small.
“She never forgot where she came from,” said Canton Mayor Bill Grant. “Mandi was more than our representative — she was our neighbor, our friend, and our advocate.”
Ballinger’s passion for service extended far beyond legislation. She volunteered with local nonprofits, mentored young women interested in public service, and championed educational opportunities throughout her district. A devout Christian, she often spoke about how her faith guided her work and her belief in justice and mercy.
A Life of Leadership and Legacy
Ballinger’s career was marked not by ambition for higher office but by a relentless focus on doing the work that mattered. Her leadership extended to several committees beyond Judiciary Juvenile, including roles on the Appropriations, Rules, and Governmental Affairs Committees. She was also active in the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) and served as a voice for Georgia in national juvenile justice discussions.
“Mandi was a rare kind of leader,” said longtime colleague Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver. “She led with humility, intellect, and a moral clarity that made people stop and listen. She wasn’t interested in headlines — she was interested in outcomes.”
Her colleagues, friends, and political peers — both Republican and Democrat — have shared an outpouring of grief and admiration in the wake of her death, calling her a “servant leader” and a “beacon of humanity in the political arena.”
Condolences and Tributes
In the hours following her passing, tributes poured in from across the state:
Governor Brian Kemp issued a statement saying, “Rep. Ballinger was a fierce advocate for children and families and a trusted voice in the House. Georgia is better because of her service. The First Lady and I extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, staff, and community.”
Lt. Governor Burt Jones added, “Mandi’s wisdom and leadership will be sorely missed under the Gold Dome. She was one of the best of us.”
Senator Raphael Warnock, via social media, called her “a devoted public servant whose work in juvenile justice changed lives for the better.”
Final Arrangements and Public Memorial
The Ballinger family has asked for privacy during this difficult time but confirmed that a public memorial service will be held in the coming days at First Baptist Church of Canton, where Mandi was a lifelong member.
The Georgia State Capitol is expected to host a day of remembrance, with flags being flown at half-staff in her honor. Lawmakers and community members will have the opportunity to pay their respects and reflect on her years of service.
In Loving Memory
Representative Mandi Ballinger
Servant Leader. Reformer. Beloved Daughter of Georgia.
Faithful in service, fierce in compassion, and gone far too soon.
As Georgia begins to come to terms with this enormous loss, one truth rings clear: Mandi Ballinger’s legacy will continue to shape lives for generations to come. Her dedication to justice, her love for her community, and her voice for the voiceless will not be forgotten.
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