Ryan Scott Ottney

PDT Staff Writer

Ohio State Board of Education member Jeff Hardin reportedly died Wednesday of a heart attack at age 58.

Hardin was serving his second term as District 10 State Board of Education representative after defeating Todd Book to win reelection in November. Book said he was saddened by the news on Wednesday.

“Jeff was a dedicated public servant who understood the importance of serving not only the children and schools in his district, but throughout Ohio,” said State Board of Education president Debe Terhar.

Terhar said that less than 24 hours before his passing, Hardin visited Columbus with his son to participate in a board meeting.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich expressed his condolences via a Tweet which read, “Saddened by the news of State School Board Member Jeff Hardin’s death. Prayers for his family as they struggle through this challenging time.”

Governor John Kasich reportedly will now appoint someone to finish Hardin’s unexpired term.

Ryan Scott Ottney can be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 287, or rottney@civitasmedia.com.