WINDOW ROCK – On behalf of the 23rd Navajo Nation Council, Speaker LoRenzo Bates (Nenahnezad, Newcomb, San Juan, Tiis Tsoh Sikaad, Tse’Daa’Kaan, Upper Fruitland) offers condolences to the family of former Council Delegate and Navajo District Court Judge Marie Roanhorse Neswood, who passed away on Dec. 24 at the age of 85. She was originally from the community of Crystal, N.M.

“Honorable Marie Neswood represented her community and the entire Navajo Nation with great dignity and pride throughout her lifetime,” Bates said. “Her honorable service will always be remembered and cherished. To her family, we offer our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Neswood served with the Judicial Branch from 1976 to 1989. According to the Judicial Branch, she became the Navajo Nation’s first district court judge and also served as acting Chief Justice for a period of time. She worked for the Office of the Chief Prosecutor and the Navajo Nation Police Department prior to being elected as a member of the 17th Navajo Nation Council from 1991–1995, representing the community of St. Michaels.

Council Delegate Jonathan Hale (Oak Springs, St. Michaels), who currently represents the community of St. Michaels, described her as a dedicated public servant who worked hard to better the lives of her neighbors and communities.

“We will forever be grateful for Honorable Neswood’s service to our Nation and our communities,” Hale said. “As the first Navajo woman to serve as a district judge, she was a great role model for our Navajo youth and all of our people.”

Neswood married Nelson Neswood from Lower Greasewood and together they had eight children and resided in St. Michaels.

A planning meeting is scheduled for Dec. 27 at 6 pm at the St. Michaels Chapter house. A rosary will be held on Dec. 28 at St. Michael Catholic Church at 7 pm, and a funeral mass will take place on Dec. 29 at St. Michael Indian School Chapel at 10 am.