Douglas Henry III, Tennessee’s longest-serving lawmaker, has died. He was 90 years old.
Lt. Gov. Randy McNally confirmed Henry's passing on Facebook Monday morning. He reportedly died late Sunday night.
Henry was one of the state's most renowned political figures. He was a World War II veteran from Nashville who began his career as a Democrat in the 50s.
He was first elected to a House seat in 1954 before being elected to the Senate in 1970.
In a statement released Monday, Governor Bill Haslam called Henry “a powerhouse intellect, courteous, kind, genuine and a statesman.”
MORE: Officials Pay Tribute To Douglas Henry
Henry retired in 2014 after serving the community for six decades, and received a standing ovation in the House and Senate Chambers.
The Office of the Lieutenant Governor confirmed Henry's body will lie in state on the second floor of the Capitol sometime this week.
Flags were lowered to half-staff Monday in honor of Henry.
