Governor Josh Green MD has ordered the US flag and Hawaii state flag to be flown at half-staff for two days from sunrise to sunset. This is a mark of respect for former Senator Whitney Anderson, who recently passed away due to a heart attack.
"Whitney Anderson loved people, which led him to serve them in the state legislature for 20 years, both in the House and Senate, in leadership roles with the minority party. His advocacy for Native Hawaiians and a woman’s right to choose will be remembered as a part of his legacy. First Lady Jaime and I send our heartfelt condolences to Hannie, Andy, Ikaika and the rest of his ʻohana," said Governor Green in a news release dated Dec. 14.
According to Hawaii Obituaries, Anderson was born on Dec. 8, 1931, to John Dominis Anderson and Evelyn Garrida Anderson. He grew up in Alewa Heights and Waikiki. After serving a stint in the U.S. Army where he was stationed in Europe, he returned home and married Hannabelle (Hannie Rice) on Jan. 18, 1958. The couple had one child together during their 65-year marriage and ran several businesses while also raising German Shepherd dogs.
Anderson was notably active within community groups such as the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs and the Kailua Hawaiian Civic Club among others.
In 1978, Anderson won a seat in the Hawaii House of Representatives where he served for 14 years. He held positions such as House Minority Floor Leader and House Minority Leader until his appointment to the Senate in 1994 following Senator Mary George's departure from her seat. According to his obituary, he continued his political career as Senate Minority Leader until his retirement.
The Hawaii Senate expressed their condolences via an Instagram post on Nov. 27: "Our condolences are with the loved ones of former Senate Minority Leader Whitney Anderson. Anderson served in the Hawai’i State Senate from 1995-2000, and a total of 20 years in the Hawai’i State Legislature. He was a dedicated public servant who was known for his commitment to his constituents. Rest in Aloha."