Rep. Howard Coble during his first term in the North Carolina House (1969)

Former U.S. Rep. Howard Coble, who represented North Carolinians for three decades in Congress, passed away Tuesday, November 3, 2015. The following is a statement from North Carolina Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham):

 “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Howard Coble, who was not only my congressman but also my mentor and friend. Congressman Coble was a true North Carolina conservative who cared deeply for his constituents and usually knew them by name. I join those all across our state who are grieving this loss, but I know his long legacy of public service will not be forgotten.”