Former NDP leader dies at 77

Alexa McDonough, a political leader that made history, passed away at the age of 77.

McDonough was the first woman to lead a major political party in Canada when she was elected the Nova Scotia NDP leader in 1980.

McDonough served as a member of the Nova Scotia Legislature from 1981 to 1994, representing the Halifax Chebucto and Halifax Fairview electoral districts.

She stepped down as the NSNDP's leader and as a member of the legislature in 1994.

She ran for and became leader of the federal NDP in 1995.

McDonough was elected the Member of Parliament in Halifax in 1997.

She stepped down as party leader in 2003, but continued to serve as an MP for two more terms, until 2008, when she retired from politics altogether.

McDonough’s obituary describes her as “a beloved, respected, and significant player in Canadian life.”

McDonough leaves behind two sons, Justin and Travis.