HARTFORD — Governor Dannel P. Malloy has directed State of Connecticut flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of State Representative Terry Backer (D-Stratford), who reportedly died during the overnight of December 14-15.

The 61-year-old had reportedly been battling brain cancer for five years.

Gov Malloy said State Rep Backer "will always be remembered at the State Capitol as a larger than life crusader who was passionate about Stratford, unwavering in his love of Long Island Sound, and deeply dedicated to his lifelong mission to preserve the waterways for future generations.

"The authenticity of his advocacy was only matched by his unforgettable approach — he truly embodied his cause in the halls of the Capitol. He had profound impact on the state's environmental and energy policies. The State of Connecticut will forever remember him as the Keeper of the Sound," the governor continued.

Lt Governor Nancy Wyman added: "It was an honor and a privilege to have served in the House of Representatives with Terry. He was a tremendous example of dedication - his environmental leadership united both sides of the aisle in the common goal to enjoy and preserve Connecticut's many natural resources. He leaves a broad legacy of protection for Long Island Sound and Connecticut's ecosystem — generations to come will benefit from his work and his passion.

"He was a colleague and a good friend," the lieutenant governor added. "My thoughts are with his family. Terry will be greatly missed."

According to his biography on the Connecticut State Democrats website, Backer was elected to the Connecticut House of Representatives in 1993, from the 121st Assembly District in Stratford. He was serving his tenth term, having been reelected in 2012, at the time of his death. 

State of Connecticut flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of State Rep Backer's interment, the date of which has not yet been determined.