She died on Thursday night with her cause of death unknown.

Cr Amery had served on council less than a year following her election to the city ward last October.

Her husband Noel was a member of the former council dismissed by the Victorian Government in 2013.

The council released a statement on Friday confirming the passing of Cr Amery.

“The mayor, councillors and council staff who worked by her side are shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Cr Ruth Amery,” the statement said.

“Cr Amery was elected in the 2016 elections to Wangaratta Council’s city ward and followed her passion for arts when she was appointed to the arts, culture and heritage portfolio.

“She was a strong advocate for the work undertaken at the Wangaratta Art Gallery, in particular the contemporary textile award, and immersed herself in understanding the difference art and culture can make to people’s lives.

“She was a steadfast supporter of the community and a vibrant and friendly person to all.”

Outside of council, Cr Amery and her husband operated an award-winning accommodation centre, Mount Pleasant Homestead.

She was the third candidate elected in city ward behind mayor Ken Clarke and Cr Dean Rees.

The Victorian Electoral Commission is expected to confirm early next week a countback of votes from the city ward election will be held to select her replacement on council.

The contenders will include another former councillor Julian Fidge, Greg Mirabella and Ashlee Fitzpatrick.