Pinal Today

The Town of Queen Creek recently announced the death of Mayor Gail Barney at the age of 74. He had fought a lung infection for several months.

“Mayor Barney dedicated his life to service, his family, and the success of the Queen Creek community,” the Town said in a June 23 release on its official website.

The Town also expressed its sorry on social media.

"It is with deep sadness that the Town shares the passing of Queen Creek Mayor Gail Barney,” a June 23 Twitter post said. "He passed away last night at the age of 74 after battling a lung infection for several months. Mayor Barney dedicated his life to service, his family, and the success of the Queen Creek community."

The Town stressed how vital Barney had been to its recent history.

"Serving 20 years on the council, Mayor Barney was instrumental in many of the Town’s milestones," the release said. "From opening Ellsworth Loop, to starting a fire department and providing municipal water services, Mayor Barney assisted the council with strategic decisions that helped propel the community forward."

In accordance with the Town’s policies and procedures, Vice Mayor Jeff Brown will step in to perform mayoral duties, the release said.

Barney is survived by his wife Pam, three children, 16 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.