To the editor:

On July 13, Eastern Ohio lost a dedicated public servant, a champion for working families and a deeply beloved member of our community–Jack Cera.

Cera was more than a former state representative — he was the very definition of a citizen leader. Born and raised in Bellaire, a proud graduate of Bellaire High School and Brown University, Jack never lost sight of where he came from. Whether in Columbus or in his native Belmont County, he carried with him the values that define this region: Hard work, honesty and a deep sense of duty to others.

Throughout his decades of service in the Ohio House of Representatives, Jack represented Belmont, Jefferson, Monroe and Noble counties and parts of Washington County with unwavering integrity. He didn’t posture, grandstand or chase headlines. Instead, Jack rolled up his sleeves and got to work. He served on key committees — finance, ways and means, agriculture and more — and played a crucial role in policies that directly improved the lives of his constituents.

He championed local infrastructure, helped launch the Roadwork Development Fund to bring jobs and development to our region and led efforts to expand the flood warning system after the 1990 Shadyside tragedy. Jack also fought tirelessly to restore local government funding from severance taxes and supported countless water, sewer and road projects that built a stronger foundation for our communities.

Yet, what truly set Jack apart was his approach to politics. He listened. He collaborated. He believed in bipartisanship — not as a buzzword but as a tool to actually get things done. His open-door policy wasn’t just a slogan — it was how he governed. He made time for constituents, local officials and anyone who came to him in need. Jack believed that public office was not about power — it was about people.

Outside of public life, Jack was a devoted husband to Becky for over 40 years, a loving father and grandfather and a loyal friend. He was known for his intellect, wit, his love of Cleveland sports and his deep bond with his family. Whether he was watching the Browns with his son-in-law or discussing music with his daughters, Jack’s heart was always with those he loved.

In a time when public trust in politics is hard to come by, Jack Cera reminded us what true public service looks like. He led with humility, worked with integrity and always kept his community at the center of his mission.

Eastern Ohio is better because Jack Cera lived here, served here and never gave up on the promise of what we could be. His legacy will endure in the roads we drive, the communities we live in and the lives he touched.

On behalf of the entire Jefferson County Democratic Party, may we all strive to carry forward his example of honest leadership and a life lived in service to others.

Eddie Abdalla

Chairman

Jefferson County

Democratic Party