Carol Leavell Barr, the wife of U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, passed away suddenly Tuesday at the family home in Lexington.

“During this tragic time, we respectfully ask for privacy for Congressman Barr and his family to grieve Mrs. Barr being called home to heaven,” a statement released from Barr’s office said Tuesday night.  She was 39.

According to the release, Barr “may release a more detailed statement at a later date, but right now is solely focused on being a father to his two beautiful daughters.”

Barr’s wife, Carol, leaves behind daughters Eleanor and Mary Clay Barr. Andy Barr is running for re-election in Tuesday’s primary.

The Barrs were married in 2008.

Mac Brown, the chairman of the Republican Party of Kentucky, said “our hearts go out to the Barr family at this tragic news.

“While there are no words that can heal the pain of losing a loved one, we pray together that God will comfort Congressman Andy Barr, their daughters, and the entire family through this very difficult time,” Brown said.

Gov. Andy Beshear expressed condolences on Twitter.
“Britainy and I are heartbroken for U.S. Rep. Andy Barr and his family tonight at the sad news of the unexpected passing of the congressman’s wife, Carol. We are praying for the Barr family.”

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell also offered words of comfort to the Barr family.