BALTIMORE (WJZ) — A tragedy for Maryland Congressman Andy Harris.

WJZ has learned Sylvia “Cookie” Harris, the congressman’s wife, unexpectedly passed away Thursday afternoon.

She was rushed to the hospital just before noon. The congressman was by her side when she died.

The Harris’ had been married for 30 years. They had five children and two grandchildren.

Governor O’Malley issued a statement on the passing of Harris: “We extend our deepest condolences to Congressman Andy Harris on the tragic loss of his wife, Sylvia ‘Cookie’ Harris. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Harris family.”

The Maryland GOP also released a statement, saying: “It is with deep sadness and regret that The Maryland Republican Party has been informed of the passing of Mrs. Sylvia “Cookie” Harris, wife of Congressman Andy Harris (Md-01). Mrs. Harris, a mother of five and grandmother of 2, was a devout catholic and strong advocate of the Maryland Right to Life organization. We are shocked and saddened by the news, Cookie was a truly wonderful person and the MDGOP’s thoughts, prayers and support go out to her family.”

The Maryland Senate Republican Caucus had this to say: “‘Cookie’ had a visible presence in Annapolis advocating on the issues she was so passionate about. All of the Senators had a wonderful relationship with her because of her political views and never-tiring activism. Our thoughts and prayers are with Congressman Harris and the family.”

Republican gubernatorial candidate Larry Hogan: “Words cannot adequately express how heartbroken Yumi and I are to learn of Cookie Harris’s sudden and tragic death. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with Andy and his children Joe, Becky, Irene, Jessica and Danny.”

Archbishop William Lori released a statement regarding the death of Harris: “Mrs. Harris was a tireless supporter of life and fully dedicated herself to the belief that all human life is sacred,” Archbishop Lori said. “Though her death is a tremendous loss, especially to those in the pro-life community, her legacy will continue to live on in the countless lives she not only touched, but possibly saved, through her efforts to build a culture of life in the Archdiocese of Baltimore.”

St. Joseph School extended its sympathies to the Harris family: “The community of St. Joseph School is deeply saddened to learn about the passing of one of our own. Cookie Harris not only shared her talents with our school as a mother of five students but also was a treasured member of our faculty,” says Mrs. Janine Paetow, assistant principal of St. Joseph School. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Congressman Harris, Danny, Jessica, Irene, Rebecca, and Joseph as well as the extended Harris family.”

Funeral arrangements have not been announced.

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