State Sen. Jack Hill, who for years has shepherded Georgia’s budget through the Senate, has died. He was 75.
Tattnall County Sheriff Kyle Sapp said Hill, a Reidsville Republican, died Monday evening at his office, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
“He was at his office working and the staff hadn’t communicated with him in a while, so someone went to check on him and found him there at his desk,” Sapp said.
State lawmakers expressed shock and sadness over Hill’s death. Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan called Hill a man of overwhelming integrity.
“For three decades Georgians have benefited from his leadership and his calm and steady hand at the helm,” Duncan said in a statement. “Jack always ensured we were good stewards of taxpayer dollars, but it was more than that, he led with kindness and clarity.”
Announcement: Statement from Lt. Governor Duncan on passing of Senator Jack Hill pic.twitter.com/QBjzVRhi2y
— Geoff Duncan (@GeoffDuncanGA) April 6, 2020
Georgia Congressman Doug Collins echoed similar sentiments about his former state legislative colleague.
“My heart is heavy this evening as I mourn the loss of my friend, Georgia Senator Jack Hill. Jack was truly the epitome of a kind, humble and gentle soul. He didn’t speak often, but when he did, everyone listened. A true statesman, Jack leaves behind a remarkable legacy of steadfast leadership and public service.”
Hill’s death is not believed to be related to the coronavirus Sapp said.
