Former Nevada congressman John Hambrick, who served as Speaker of the House, has died. He was 79 years old.

In the statement made on his Facebook page, it was stated that Hambrick died on Wednesday, November 13.

As a Republican, he represented Assembly District 2, which covers Summerlin and parts of west Las Vegas, from 2008 to 2020. He held the gavel as speaker during the 78th legislative session in 2016.

During his time in Carson City, Hambrick advocated for legislation to protect vulnerable populations and address human trafficking.

Outside of his legislative work, Hambrick was a former U.S. Secret Service agent, an investigator with the federal Office of Inspector General, and an agent with the Immigration and Naturalization Service.

Several of Hambrick’s colleagues shared their memories and appreciation of the late speaker.

“I first stepped into the Mayor’s Office in Carson City when John Hambrick occupied it in 2015,” House Speaker Steve Yeager wrote. “He saw the humanity in everyone and was just as good as they were. I have fond memories of collaborating with him on juvenile justice issues in 2015, then serving together in 2017 and 2019.”

“Former Speaker John Hambrick was the nicest person among us—gracious, kind, and humble,” Councilwoman Melissa Hardy wrote. “I was honored to know and serve with this respected public servant.”