Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered flags around Iowa to be lowered to half-staff on Oct. 25.
Flags will remain at half-staff from sunrise to sunset to honor the life of Iowa Sen. Claire Celsi, who died on Oct. 6. The 59-year-old Iowa Democrat entered hospice care on Sept. 18. Celsi missed multiple months of voting in the Iowa Senate due to medical issues during the 2025 session. She returned to the legislature after surgery in April.
“Claire was an impassioned voice for Central Iowa constituents and advocated on their behalf for several years in the State House. Even while privately battling illness, Claire made it a point to return to her post during this year’s legislative session and stand for her beliefs. Our family is praying for Claire’s loved ones at this time,” Reynolds said in a statement.
Who was Sen. Claire Celsi?
Celsi was elected to the Iowa Senate in 2018 to represent District 16, which covers parts of West Des Moines, Clive and Windsor Heights. The Democrat won reelection to the seat in 2022 and 2024.
During her elected service, Celsi advocated for public schools and protested against the use of taxpayer dollars to fund private school savings accounts. Celsi led Senate Democrats in calling for an investigation into Iowa nursing homes for abuse and neglect while she was a ranking member on the Government Oversight Committee.
Outside of public service, Celsi owned a marketing and communication business. She is a graduate of Dowling Catholic High School and Drake University.
When is the memorial service for Iowa Sen. Claire Celsi?
A celebration of life service for friends and family of Celsi will also take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 25 at the Valley High School cafeteria, according to her obituary. The address is 3650 Woodland Ave., West Des Moines.
What’s the difference between half-mast and half-staff for flags?
Half-mast is used when the flag is flown from a flagpole, typically referring to a ship mast or similar structures, according to Federal Flags. Half-mast means the flag is flown two-thirds up between the top and bottom of the flagstaff.
Half-staff is the term used for flags on land, particularly in the United States. Half-staff describes a flag that is raised halfway, between the top and bottom of the flagpole.
When the American flag is flown at half-staff, it conveys a message of respect and mourning. Federal Flags says this custom is most often observed following the death of a government official, military personnel or in response to a national tragedy.
Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Flags at half-staff in Iowa to remember Democratic state senator
