PHOENIX (KYMA, KECY) - Former Senate Democratic leader Alfredo Gutierrez has passed away Tuesday. House Democratic leader Oscar De Los Santos issued the following statement on Gutierrez's passing: "It is with heavy hearts that we relay the announcement that Arizona has lost iconic former Senate Democratic Leader Alfredo Gutierrez.

Longtime Arizona activist and politician Alfredo Gutierrez died at 79. Friends and colleagues remember him and his impact this week on The Gaggle.

Former Arizona State Senator Alfredo Gutierrez, who was known for his community advocacy efforts over the years, passed away on July 29.