(Photo courtesy of the Maricopa County Community College District)

Ben Miranda was a member of the governing board of the Maricopa County Community College District.

Former State Rep. Ben Miranda died unexpectedly Friday. A Democrat, Miranda served in the legislature from 2002 until 2010. He was also an attorney and was awarded a Bronze Star for his service during the Vietnam war.

In a statement, Maricopa County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox praised Miranda as “big-hearted” and an “independent voice” in the Valley.

Miranda was serving as a governing board member for the Maricopa County Community College District. Chancellor Rufus Glasper said in a statement that Miranda was a passionate advocate for education.

Miranda is survived by two children and by his wife Catherine, who currently serves in the Arizona House. Ben Miranda was 64.

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