Cook County Clerk Karen Yarbrough dies at 73

Cook County Clerk Karen Yarbrough, a prominent figure in local and Illinois politics, passed away on Sunday, March 26, 2023, at the age of 73. According to the Cook County Clerk's office, she passed away surrounded by her family and her husband, former Maywood Mayor Henderson Yarbrough.

Yarbrough had been hospitalized for a serious medical condition in recent days, and her sudden death came as a shock to many in the political community. In a statement, Chief Deputy Clerk Cedric Giles expressed the profound impact Yarbrough had on public service in Cook County and the State of Illinois. "We have lost one of the brightest lights in the public service arena in Cook County and the State of Illinois," Giles said. "Her dedication and commitment to the people of Cook County were unwavering, and she will be deeply missed."

Born and raised in Chicago, Yarbrough began her career in public service in the late 1980s when she was appointed as the first African American female assistant state's attorney in Cook County. She went on to serve in various roles in the Cook County government, including as the chief of staff to the Cook County Board President and as the director of the Cook County Department of Human Services.

In 2010, Yarbrough made history by becoming the first African American woman to be elected as Cook County Clerk. During her tenure as clerk, she oversaw the administration of elections in Cook County and implemented several reforms aimed at increasing voter access and transparency.

Yarbrough's passing has been met with an outpouring of condolences and tributes from political leaders and community members. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle issued a statement expressing her sadness and praising Yarbrough's "unwavering commitment to public service and her dedication to ensuring fair and accessible elections in Cook County."

Governor J.B. Pritzker also issued a statement expressing his condolences and noting Yarbrough's "tireless efforts to make government more accessible and responsive to the people of Cook County."

Funeral arrangements for Yarbrough have not yet been announced. The Cook County Clerk's office will continue to operate under the leadership of Chief Deputy Clerk Cedric Giles until further notice.

Yarbrough's passing is a significant loss to the political community in Cook County and the State of Illinois. Her legacy as a trailblazer and dedicated public servant will be remembered for years to come.