Rep. Joe John (Wake Co.) (Photo: NCGA)
Rep. Joe John, who served as a North Carolina state lawmaker after years in the judiciary, died Wednesday, his family said. He was 85.
John, a Democrat from Wake County, resigned days prior from the House. He cited a battle with cancer that had revealed a terminal diagnosis.
“As I reflect on my time in service, I hope my legacy will be one of dedication to the common good — working to build bridges, advocate for the voiceless, and fight for justice,” John wrote in a statement announcing his resignation Sunday.
“My deepest wish is that the work we’ve done together will live on, inspiring future leaders to carry the torch of compassion, reasonableness, and progress. If my time in office has made even a small difference in your lives, then I will leave this world knowing I’ve done my part.”
In a post online announcing his death, John’s family called him a “dedicated statesman who selflessly committed decades of his life to serving the people of North Carolina.”
“His dedication to justice, fairness, and improving the lives of others touched countless people, and his work will be remembered for generations to come,” they wrote. “However, the title he held most dear was ‘Pa,’ a role in which he truly shined with adoration and devotion.”
John served four full terms in the House, and was elected to a fifth last November. Before his time in the General Assembly, he had served as a judge on the state District Court, Superior Court and Court of Appeals.
“He was one of the best men I’ve known — a strong leader, outstanding public servant and a great friend,” House Democratic Leader Robert Reives (D-Chatham) said in a statement. “Everyone who met him knows how kind Rep. John was to everyone in the room. His commitment to our state and its people will be sorely missed. I am keeping his family in my thoughts and prayers.”
“Rep. John exemplified what it means to serve with dignity and selflessness,” Senate Democratic Leader Sydney Batch (D-Wake) said in a statement.
“From his years on the bench, to the executive branch, to his service in the General Assembly, he brought integrity, wisdom, and humanity to every role he undertook.”
Wake County Democrats will select a replacement for Gov. Stein to formally appoint to represent John’s district as the 2025 legislative session begins in earnest next week.