Lawyers Defending American Democracy mourns the loss of Marianne Meacham, a member of our board, who died on Sunday, February 26.

Marianne was an extraordinary lawyer and friend. She believed passionately in the need for lawyers to speak out to protect democracy and the rule of law. She saw clearly the dangers facing our country, and stepped forward to meet those challenges by volunteering her time, energy, and considerable intellect to our organization, assisting in a variety of ways.

Marianne was the perfect organizational leader. She responded to requests for assistance with enthusiasm, patience, and her ever-present warmth and kindness. She saw when something needed to be done and helped do it. There was no task too hard or too mundane – in every task, Marianne did exemplary work.

LDAD co-founder Scott Harshbarger, in speaking of his time working with Marianne when he was the Attorney General, reminisced: “Marianne represented the very best standard of professional excellence and dedication, showcasing how to combine professional skills with personal values and making a difference in the lives of others.”

We will all dearly miss Marianne and will strive to live up to her example of selfless dedication to doing what is right.