Newburgh Mayor Judy Kennedy has passed away following a nearly two-year battle with ovarian cancer. She was 73.

Her death cuts short a once-improbable second term as mayor, which she won after losing a Democratic primary and declaring herself an Independent.

Orange County Executive Steven Neuhaus issued a statement on Kennedy's passing, writing in part, "She will be missed for her hard work, compassion and commitment to the residents of Newburgh."