Councillor Fitzgerald served on Swansea Council as the ward member for Penllergaer for almost 21 years.
She passed away at her home surrounded by her family, following a short illness.
Council flags outside the Guildhall are being flown at half-mast.
Council Leader Rob Stewart said:
“It is with great sadness that we have learnt of Wendy’s passing and my thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time.
“Wendy was a dedicated champion for the people of Penllergaer and worked hard to represent her ward. She will be missed by all her colleagues on the council.”
Councillor Fitzgerald was first elected to the council in 2004 as an Independent member and remained as such ever since.
She was also a community councillor, a school governor at Penllergaer Primary and Pontarddulais Comprehensive and was on the Board of the Penllergare Trust, responsible for Penllergare Valley Woods.
Lord Mayor of Swansea Paxton Hood-Williams said:
“I offer my sincere condolences to Wendy’s family and friends.
“I have greatly valued her support during my year in office and I know how proud she was to serve as Deputy Lord Mayor and how much she was looking forward to becoming Lord Mayor.
“Wendy was one of Swansea’s longest serving and most respected councillors and will be very sadly missed.”
[Lead image: Swansea Council]
