By Marshall Griffin, KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – A former member of the Missouri House has died from complications of a brain aneurysm.
Sherman Parker served two terms in the Missouri House, representing the 12th district, which covers part of St. Charles County.
In 2006, he made an unsuccessful bid for Congress against GOP incumbent Todd Akin.
In an interview two years ago with KWMU's Matt Sepic, Parker talked about the unique challenge of being both Republican and African-American.
"I never used a niche strategy based on race or gender or anything like that...basically I just approach each person and try to identify with them on issues that they care about," Parker said.
Parker suffered a fatal brain aneurysm Thursday morning and was declared brain dead at 8:50 P.M.
He remained on a ventilator through today to allow family and friends to say goodbye, and was pronounced dead after being removed from it this afternoon.
Parker's views on issues varied. He opposed abortion but supported stem cell research.
"I think if we can do it in an ethical manner, and we can use these embryonic stem cells for research to solve cures such as diabetes, why not? If we can help save lives and help cure these diseases, why not?" Parker said in 2006.
Parker was 37 years old. He is survived by his wife, a daughter, a step-daughter, his mother and a grandmother.