Columbia Councilwoman Leona Plaugh Dies After Cancer Battle

Leona Plaugh/Provided

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) – Columbia City District 4 Councilwoman Leona Plaugh,66, passed away Wednesday after a 2-year battle with cancer.

She was surrounded by her family at their home in Columbia.

Plaugh was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in right leg called extra-skeletal soft tissue sarcoma.

Following 15 months of exhaustive treatment in Houston, she made the tough decision to have her right leg amputated in October 2015. After the procedure, doctors declared her cancer-free.

However, the cancer returned less than a year later.

Rather than go through additional surgery, Plaugh entered into the qualification process for clinical trails for a new form of sarcoma treatment at University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Due to the scope of the cancer, doctors decided against the treatment and she began hospice care in mid-July.

Her husband of 45 years Joe Plaugh issued the following statement:

“Leona has always been a fighter. When she was diagnosed, we knew this was going to be the biggest challenge of our lives. Throughout the fight, she remained focused on her family, the Lord and her service to Columbia.

“Columbia is home and that’s something she never forgot. She loved our great city and I’m grateful for all the support she has received over the years in this battle.

“God has a plan for all of us and this was His plan for Leona. I ask everyone to keep us in your prayers and please carry on her commitment to Columbia.”

Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin released the following statement:

“Leona dedicated her entire professional life to the City of Columbia. Her service will be missed. We’re grateful for her years of dedication to our city, and we send our heartfelt prayers and condolences to her family.”