‘I even let him win sometimes,’ Willa McKee, then 94, says of her son and card partner, Rhode Island. Gov. Dan McKee in a 2022 McKee campaign ad. The memorable spot helped make McKee relatable to voters. (Screenshot/Friends of Dan McKee)
After she moved back in with her son in his Cumberland home, Willa McKee played cards.
“I even let him win sometimes,” the then 94-year-old mother of Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee said in his 2022 video campaign ad.
The video of the two at a table with their cards helped make the governor relatable to voters, evidenced by McKee’s victory in the September primary and November general election.
The governor’s office announced the passing of Willa McKee Friday morning.
“Our mom and grandmother was an extraordinary source of love, joy, kindness, and support to her husband, children, grandchildren and many friends,” the governor’s office said in a statement. “Her home will forever be known as a fun, safe, and welcoming place to be. Willa McKee’s masterpiece of a life is now complete. We are blessed to have her love us all in a very special way. She will be missed and forever loved. Our family thanks everyone for their prayers and asks to respect our privacy during this difficult time.”
Funeral services will be private.
State and national officials offered condolences to the family in the wake of the news Friday.
“Willa McKee leaves an incredible legacy that will be forever felt by her family, friends, and community,” Senate President Dominick Ruggerio said in a statement. “In recent years, she shared the gift of her amazing personality with all Rhode Islanders through her memorable appearances in the Governor’s TV ads. We are all better for having known her, whether personally or from afar. On behalf of all my colleagues in the Rhode Island Senate, I want to express my deepest condolences to Governor McKee and his family. Thank you for sharing Willa’s joy and bright light with us.”
Senate Majority Leader Ryan Pearson, a Cumberland Democrat, also highlighted Willa McKee’s importance in the Cumberland community.
“Willa McKee’s wit, charm, and unwavering support were not only instrumental in Governor McKee’s successful campaign but also endeared her to the people of Rhode Island,” Pearson said. Her memorable appearances in Governor McKee’s TV ads brought smiles and warmth to many, showcasing her unique sense of humor and vibrant personality.”
U.S. Sen. Jack Reed praised her as “wonderful person” and “great role model.”
“Many lives were bettered by her countless contributions to her family and community,” Reed said in a statement.
Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, and U.S. Reps. Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo offered sympathy messages via posts on X.
Nancy Lavin contributed to this story.
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