GREENVILLE, N.C. – Congressman Walter B. Jones, who represented North Carolina’s 3rd congressional district in the Outer Banks, has died. He was 76.
Jones’ office announced the news in a Facebook post Sunday.
Jones went into hospice care due to rapidly declining health after breaking his hip at his home on January 14. He then underwent surgery at Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina, the following day.
“Congressman Jones was a man of the people. With a kind heart and the courage of his convictions, he dedicated his life to serving his Savior and to standing up for Americans who needed a voice. He was a champion for our men and women in uniform and their families, always mindful of their service and sacrifice,” his office wrote in the post.
North Carolina Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) issued a statement on Jones’ death:
“Today, North Carolina lost a strong advocate and I lost a friend. Congressman Jones served the people of his state with passion in the General Assembly and the U.S. Congress. During his tenure, our state and country went through important trials and came out stronger because of his work. I will miss him, and so will thousands of others.”
U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) issued the following statement:
“Congressman Walter B. Jones, Jr. was the true embodiment of a public servant. He will be long remembered for his tireless advocacy for Eastern North Carolina, which he loved dearly, and for always following his convictions, no matter the political cost. He always did what he felt was right for his constituents, his district, and his country, and it was no wonder why he was so widely admired and trusted. It was a true honor to serve with Walter Jones. Susan and I send our deepest condolences to Joe Anne and his loving family.”
Congressman A. Donald McEachin, who represents Virginia’s 4th district, also issued a statement after Jones’ passing:
“Congressman Jones’ family and friends are in my heart and prayers on this difficult day. I saw Congressman Jones as an ally in our bipartisan fight to stop drilling off the mid-Atlantic coastline as we twice introduced the Defend our Coast Act. I send my condolences to Walter’s friends, family, and his longtime partners in the North Carolina congressional delegation.”
Jones will lie in repose at St. Peter Catholic Church in Greenville from 4-8 p.m. on February 13, according to his official Twitter account. His funeral will be held at the church the following day at 1:30 p.m.
The funeral will be open to the public, with a private family internment to follow.
