Susan Burgess, a leading figure in Charlotte politics and civic life, died Wednesday from cancer. She was 64.

Mayor Anthony Foxx told the Charlotte Observer that Burgess died about 6:25 a.m. at her home, surrounded by her husband of 43 years, Pat, and by her four children.

"The Charlotte community mourns the loss of one of the strongest, most courageous public servants we have ever known," Foxx said.

The mayor ordered flags in Charlotte to be flown at half-staff for the rest of the week.

Burgess, who served as mayor pro tem, resigned her seat on city council last week, citing her failing health. Her son, Jason, a Charlotte doctor, was named to fill her unexpired term.

Burgess had undergone treatment in 2007 for the colorectal cancer. She announced last month that the cancer had spread and that she was under Hospice care.

Read more at CharlotteObserver.com.

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