Magisterial District Judge Pat Broscius has lost her long battle with cancer. She died Aug. 18 at 66 years old.

Her magisterial district included all of Bethlehem Township. She was seeking re-election to the seat she first won in 2015. Before that, she was a highly regarded assistant district attorney in Northampton County.

Broscius knew what it is like to be a woman in what was once a man’s world. She was the first woman ever hired as a full-time prosecutor in Northampton County, a position she held for 25 years.

She dedicated her career as a prosecutor to protecting children, bringing sexually violent predators to justice and selflessly serving the citizens of Northampton County. She was known for her calm demeanor in her matter-of-fact prosecution of the most revolting offenses.

A lifelong resident of Northampton County, Broscius grew up in Palmer Township. She attended St. Jane’s Elementary School, Notre Dame Green Pond High School, Northampton Community College and DeSales University. She was awarded her law degree from the Widener University School of Law in 1990 and went right to work for former District Attorney John Morganelli.

She was a dedicated runner who logged five miles per day for several years straight, often accompanied by her three children - Daniel, Claire and Joseph.

She was married to Attorney John Rybak. He, unfortunately, died about six years ago. He succumbed to cancer as well.

Northampton District Attorney Terry Houck called her a “voice for the voiceless,” and added she served as a mentor for the many women who followed her in the legal profession.

Democrats will find another candidate for November’s election, but all who knew her would agree she, herself, is irreplaceable.