NC delegation pays tribute to late former Rep. Coble

North Carolina lawmakers eulogized their former GOP colleague Howard Coble, who died Tuesday after retiring from the House last year.

Members of the state delegation gathered in the center of the House floor to pay tribute to Coble, who served from 1985 until he decided not to seek reelection last year due to health reasons. Rep. Richard Hudson (R-N.C.) marked the occasion by wearing a plaid suit jacket in honor of Coble’s signature look.

Rep. Mark Walker (R-N.C.), who succeeded Coble, said it was “an honor to follow him” in Congress. 

{mosads}“He is often remembered by his attire, specifically the madras jacket. No, it didn’t match many times, but he was confident enough in who he was. And evidently the ladies seemed to have no problem with it,” Walker said.

Added Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.): “Howard, we miss you.”

Hudson also wore a madras jacket when lawmakers gave Coble a floor tribute last November ahead of his retirement.

“Howard was not always known for his colorful jackets. When he first came to town, Howard was known for his many colorful suspenders,” Hudson said at the time.

The House chaplain, Rev. Patrick Conroy, made note of Coble’s death in his opening prayer at the start of Wednesday’s House proceedings.

“This assembly takes special notice of the passing of Howard Coble, the much-loved and respected member of 30 years from North Carolina,” Conroy said. “A gentleman to the core, may we all strive to embody his grace, class and respect for this institution.

“May he rest in peace.”