CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) — An era has come to an end at the West Virginia State Capitol. On January 8, 2026, Senate President Pro Tempore Donna J. Boley (R-Pleasants) officially submitted her resignation, concluding a historic 41-year career in public service.
Boley, who was first appointed to the Senate on May 14, 1985, retires as the longest continually serving state senator in the history of West Virginia.
Senator Boley’s tenure was marked by a steadfast commitment to conservative principles. For several years during her early career, she famously stood as the sole Republican in the West Virginia Senate. Her presence ensured that a conservative voice was always part of the legislative record, even when she was outnumbered.
In her resignation letter, Boley noted that she had been elected 11 times by the constituents of Pleasants County and the Third Senatorial District.
“I will be forever grateful and proud to have been your voice in Charleston, and I enjoyed my time in service to you,” Boley wrote.
Senate President Randy E. Smith (R-Preston) issued a heartfelt statement following the announcement, emphasizing Boley’s unmatched dedication and her role as a mentor to those in the chamber.
“She stood as a strong conservative voice in the Senate, even when she was the only conservative voice,” Smith said. “Her institutional knowledge and her ability to work with all people – no matter their politics – is an inspiration to us all. She’s truly one of a kind.”
President Smith also highlighted the personal bond they shared, stating he was “blessed” to call her both a colleague and a friend.
Senator Boley cited the need to focus on her health and her family as the primary reasons for her immediate departure. She specifically expressed a desire to spend more “good years” with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
She also took a moment to recognize the staff who supported her four-decade career, specifically mentioning her loyal assistant of 25 years, Carolyn Dawson.
The vacancy created by Senator Boley’s retirement will be filled according to West Virginia state law, which typically involves the executive committee of the departing senator’s political party submitting a list of three potential successors to the Governor for appointment.
As the Senate moves forward without its most senior member, Boley’s legacy remains a permanent fixture of West Virginia’s political history—a testament to four decades of “energy and dedication that few could ever match.”
