Democratic Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia died Wednesday morning at age 75, his family announced, according to CNN.

In a statement, the family said Connolly died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones.

Last month, Connolly announced he would not seek reelection and would step down from his leadership role on the House Oversight Committee following the return of his esophageal cancer, first diagnosed in November. He vowed transparency, saying he would continue serving “with grace.”

Connolly had represented Virginia’s 11th District since 2009 and previously served 14 years on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.

His family remembered him as a devoted public servant who championed justice and the voiceless, saying, “His absence will leave a hole in our hearts.”

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