‘Unrelenting in her beliefs.’ Manatee officials react to Commissioner Felts’ death
Since hearing of Manatee County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts’ death on Tuesday, officials have commended Felts’ passion and service to her district.
Felts, 68, was a Myakka City resident who represented Manatee County’s District 1, including Myakka City, Parrish and Palmetto, on the Manatee County Commission. She was found dead Tuesday, sources told the Bradenton Herald. Manatee County Government confirmed Felts’ death in a statement Tuesday evening.
“Commissioner Felts was a dedicated public servant and a steadfast advocate for the residents of District 1,” the statement said. “Throughout her tenure, she worked diligently to represent her constituents, strengthen community partnerships, and advance initiatives that supported the well-being of Manatee County and its residents.”
Before becoming a commissioner in 2024, Felts actively attended Manatee County Commission meetings as a concerned citizen, and later spoke from behind the dais to oppose sprawling development in rural Manatee County.
As news of Felts’ death spread, state lawmakers, fellow commissioners and local government agencies sent their condolences and commended Felts’ passion for her constituents.
Fellow board members and lawmakers said Felts will be remembered by the passion she had for her district, calling her “unrelenting.” Commissioner Bob McCann told the Bradenton Herald that Felts “really fought for her people.”
Manatee County Government said the Board of County Commissioners will honor Felts at its next meeting on Tuesday.
Commissioner George Kruse
Today, Manatee County has learned of the passing of Commissioner Carol Ann Felts. This is a tough one for all of us. I’ve known Carol since my first campaign back in 2020 when she was the ONLY private residence with my massive 8’ signs in her front yard. We (spent) many hours talking over the years, holding town halls on her property, and working on issues that mattered to her.
Carol ran to represent her constituents the right way. She was unrelenting in her beliefs but also humble enough to know what she didn’t know. I was incredibly proud of her work-ethic upon taking office. Just a few weeks ago, we were sitting to discuss Florida Association of Counties webinars and classes she could take. She wanted to learn, not for herself, but so that she could be the best representative she could be for District 1 after those residents went too long without proper (representation) and a district voice. They found that voice in 2024.
Today, Manatee County has lost a commissioner who represented everyone the right way. Passionately.
RIP Commissioner Carol Ann Felts.
Commissioner Amanda Ballard
My heart is heavy, and I’m in deep shock over the news that my colleague and friend Carol Ann Felts has died. She was funny, genuine, and most importantly, she was the advocate that her District needed. They loved her fiercely, and she loved them back. She was sweet and thoughtful, always asking about my kids and sharing tips about raising little boys, and balancing being a mom with working. We would talk about fashion— she adored my high heels, but said she was out of her stiletto days, and loved animal print, and said that as a woman gets older, her closet starts to look like a safari. For Christmas, she got me a gift set from a Myakka City beef tallow based skincare brand (Feral Farmacy). Which is just SO Carol Ann. By the way, it’s excellent, and I use it daily. She was a true Florida Cracker, in the very best sense of the word. And I will miss her greatly.
State Sen. Jim Boyd
The loss of Commissioner Felts leaves a void in our community. She was a champion for all things Manatee and worked to preserve what makes our home so special. Lifting up Carol Ann and her family in my prayers.
State Rep. Will Robinson
I am incredibly sad to hear about the passing of Commissioner Felts. Carol was a fierce advocate for Manatee County and loved by so many for her passion and love of our community. May God bless Carol’s family and friends during this difficult time. We are all better for knowing her. I know our County is. I know I am. Thank you, Carol!
Congressman Vern Buchanan
Sandy and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Manatee County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts.
She dedicated her life to serving our community and advocating for the future of Manatee County. Her commitment to public service will not be forgotten. Please join us in praying for her family and friends during this difficult time.
Former Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore
Carol Ann Felts passed away unexpectedly today. She loved her job and the citizens in her district. We were at the fair grounds which is soo, Carol. We chatted six days ago and this was her last comment to me. From one commissioner Carol to another, thanks for being you girl …
Former Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge
I knew commissioner Felts for nearly 20 years. No one was more passionate about Manatee County than she. Carol knew that the life of an elected official could be harsh yet she selflessly stepped up to serve our community. She had a heart of gold and I am proud to have called her my friend.
Manatee County Clerk of Court & Comptroller
We are saddened to hear of the passing of District 1 Commissioner Carol Felts. We had the privilege of working alongside her and witnessing firsthand her passion for this community.
Our hearts go out to Commissioner Felts’ family and close friends during this difficult time. She will be deeply missed.
West Manatee Fire and Rescue District
West Manatee Fire Rescue District extends our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Manatee County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts on her passing.
Commissioner Felts dedicated herself to public service and to the residents of Manatee County. Her commitment to the community and her willingness to serve will be remembered by many.
Our thoughts are with her loved ones and all those who mourn her loss during this difficult time.
Manatee County Democratic Party
The MCDP is sorry to report the passing of Carol Felts, D1 County Commissioner (R). We offer our most heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, supporters and colleagues. A Florida native with multi-generational roots, she was a fierce protector of Manatee’s natural habitat and will be missed.
State Attorney’s Office 12th Judicial Circuit
Our office extends our deepest condolences to the Manatee County Government, as well as to the friends and family of District 1 Commissioner Carol Ann Felts. Her sudden passing is a profound loss to our community.
Commissioner Felts exemplified unwavering dedication and genuine compassion for everyone she served. Her positive influence and steadfast leadership will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her.
Duette Fire and Rescue District
The Duette Fire Rescue District is saddened by the loss of our district 1 Manatee County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts and extends our condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.
She championed limited growth to protect the rural areas of Manatee County. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time.
City of Bradenton
The City of Bradenton is saddened by the sudden passing of Manatee County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts. Commissioner Felts approached her role with professionalism and a genuine commitment to supporting residents and strengthening connections across our community. She left a meaningful impact through her service to Manatee County.
Mayor Gene Brown shared that he last saw her at Friday evening’s Bradenton Area River Regatta opening night, where she was glad to attend and took time to learn more about what Bradenton has to offer.
We join our community partners and residents in keeping her family, friends, and colleagues in our thoughts during this difficult time.
This story was originally published February 25, 2026 at 11:44 AM.
