Ohio to Fly Flags at Half-Staff on October 31
Governor Mike DeWine ordered the tribute to honor the life and public service of former state representative Marily Slaby.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Military
Governor Mike DeWine has ordered the flags of the United States and Ohio to be flown at half-staff on Oct. 31, 2026. This directive honors the life and service of former state representative Marily Slaby on the day of her funeral.
Why it matters
The order serves as an official state recognition of Slaby's contributions and tenure as a public servant. It ensures that state facilities observe a period of mourning in accordance with established gubernatorial protocol.
The order applies to the Ohio Statehouse, Vern Riffe Center, and Rhodes Tower, as well as all public buildings and grounds in Summit and Stark counties. Buildings elsewhere in the state may lower their flags at their own discretion.
The players
Mike DeWine
Mike DeWine is the current Governor of Ohio who holds the executive authority to issue formal proclamations regarding state flag displays.
Marily Slaby
Marily Slaby was a former state representative who served in the Ohio General Assembly.
The details
Flags will remain at half-staff from sunrise to sunset across the designated locations. This state-mandated observance marks the final honors for Marily Slaby.
Timeline
Flags will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Oct. 31, 2026.
Political Context
The opposition party and local advocacy groups occasionally debate the frequency of such executive orders, arguing that flag-lowering should be reserved for the most significant state or national tragedies. These groups often push for stricter criteria to ensure the honor retains its intended solemnity and gravity.
Residents in Summit and Stark counties may notice flags at half-staff at all public buildings on Oct. 31, 2026. This administrative action does not impact private business operations or public services, as it is a ceremonial display.
The takeaway
This order highlights the standard procedures Ohio follows to pay respect to former elected officials during their funeral services. Residents observing the flags should understand this is a scheduled state tribute rather than an emergency response.
Further reading
For more information on official state observances, visit the Ohio Military section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wtap.
