Alabama state representative for parts of Lee and Russell counties, Rep. George Bandy, D-Opelika, died early Tuesday morning, according to a spokesperson for the Legislature.
The 72-year-old Democratic representative, who was first elected to the House in 1994, from Opelika, passed away in a Macon,
Gov. Kay Ivey released a statement concerning Bandy shortly after his death.
"I am saddened to hear of the death of state Representative George Bandy," Ivey said. "Since his election in 1994, he has been a dedicated public servant to the people of Lee and Russell counties. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and fellow legislators during this difficult time."
Known as "Tootie" by his friends and fellow legislators, Bandy served as the representative for House District 83, serving for over 20 years.
Previously, he served as chair of the Alabama House of Representatives Lee County Legislation Committee and served on the State Government and Transportation Utilities and Infrastructure committees.
Bandy was a chairman of the Alabama Democratic Conference and president of the Lee County Alliance. He served as a pastor at Saint James Missionary Baptist Church in Opelika and was formerly a member of the Lee County Commission.
Gov. Ivey said she will work with Secretary of State John Merrill's office to determine when a special election to fill the seat will be held.
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