Kansas Rep. Joe Edwards of Haysville dies of suspected heart attack

A Kansas lawmaker died from a suspected heart attack, a spokeswoman for House Republicans announced late Tuesday.

Rep. Joe Edwards, R-Haysville, had served one term in the Legislature. Edwards, 60, lost in the primary against John Whitmer in the 93rd District earlier this month.

The Kansas House GOP Twitter account announced Edwards’ passing on Twitter late Tuesday.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Rep. Joe Edwards, who passed away today of a suspected heart attack,” the tweet said.

Rachel Whitten, spokeswoman for House Speaker Ray Merrick, contacted The Eagle to confirm the news and reiterate the message of support to Edwards’ family.

This story was originally published August 19, 2014 at 9:51 PM with the headline "Kansas Rep. Joe Edwards of Haysville dies of suspected heart attack."