On Sept. 29, Dianne Feinstein, a long-standing figure in American politics, passed away due to encephalitis.

Dianne Feinstein was born on June 22, 1933, in San Francisco. She was the longest-serving female U.S. senator in history and had an extensive career in public service. Best known for her support of gun control, healthcare reform and environmental protection, Feinstein played a role in shaping legislation.

Feinstein started off as a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1969. She became the first female president of the board, which resulted in her serving as Mayor of San Francisco from 1978 to 1988. She helped navigate the city through challenging periods: the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor of San Francisco, George Moscone.

Her journey to the U.S. Senate began in 1992, representing California. She was in the service for 31 years, one of the first woman to chair the Senate Rules Committee and the Senate Intelligence Committee

The news of Feinstein’s death has created an outpouring of condolences and tributes across the board. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro released a statement regarding the death on Fox News: “I am saddened by the news of the death of Senator Dianne Feinstein. Senator Feinstein was a dedicated public servant and an icon in American politics.”

Feinstein’s funeral arrangements and memorial services have not been announced. However, both private and public commemorations to honor her life and contributions can be expected.