Georgette Berube, one of the matriarchs of Lewiston politics, died Wednesday. She was 77.

A Lewiston original who made her way in politics during a time when few women did, Berube built a reputation as being tough, fair-minded and selfless, willing to put the well-being of the state and the city ahead of personal political ambitions.

She spent 26 years in the Maine Legislature, splitting her time between the House and the Senate, where she was known as a straight-shooter, who was willing work across party lines and tirelessly advocate for her community and neighbors. In 1982, she unsuccessfully challenged sitting Gov. Joseph Brennan in a Democratic primary. Brennan was re-elected.

Born Georgette Beauparlant, she grew up immersed in the Franco-American culture that dominated Lewiston during her childhood in the 1930s and 1940s. She spoke French fluently and was a committed advocate for her cultural heritage, serving as the chairwoman of the advisory board for the Franco-American Collection at L-A College.

Throughout Wednesday, as news of Berube’s death spread, Maine’s most powerful political leaders offered personal tributes to the former lawmaker. They described her as a “dedicated and conscientious public servant” and “a champion of education” who was “committed to working families and children.”

“Georgette symbolized all that is right about public service – tirelessly doing the people’s business in the spirit of true bipartisanship and without need for recognition,” said Rep. Mike Michaud.

During her more than two decades of public service, Berube made a difference for the people of Lewiston and the people of Maine. Her energy, insight and character will be missed.