Virginia Sen. Ben Chafin died Friday of COVID-19 complications.
Chafin’s office confirmed his death in a news release received by WJHL, saying the 60-year-old lawmaker had been admitted to the VCU Medical Center in hospital for the past two weeks.
The report is survived by his wife and three children.
In response to the tragic news, the Government of Virginia, Ralph Northam, paid tribute to Chafin, calling him a ‘strong advocate’ and a ‘good man’.
“He loved the outdoors, and he loved serving people even more.
“He has strongly urged to bring jobs and investment to his district, and I will always be grateful for his courageous voice in expanding the health care for people in need,” Northam said in a statement from Chafin.
Chafin has served the state since 2013, when he was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates.
The following year he was elected to the Senate.