On November 29, U.S. Representative Donald McEachin reportedly passed away at 61 years old. The Democratic congressman was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2013.
“We are all devastated at the passing of our boss and friend, Congressman Donald McEachin,” McEachin’s chief of staff, Tara Rountree, said.
“Valiantly, for years now, we have watched him fight and triumph over the secondary effects of his colorectal cancer from 2013. Tonight, he lost that battle, and the people of Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District lost a hero who always, always fought for them and put them first.”
In honor of McEachin, the White House lowered the American flag to half-staff on Tuesday.
“Congressman Donald McEachin was a relentless advocate for his community, a dedicated colleague, and a loving husband, father, and grandfather. In Virginia’s General Assembly and the United States Congress, he was tireless in the fight for justice,” Vice President Kamala Harris said.
McEachin earned a bachelor’s degree in political history at American University in 1982. Four years later, he earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law. Upon graduation, he began practicing law in Richmond and became a partner in his own firm. In 1995, he transitioned into politics, earning a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates. Over the next two decades, McEachin made his way from the Virginia House of Delegates to the state’s attorney general office and the Virginia Senate. In 2017, he made his way from Virginia to Capitol Hill, representing Virginia’s 4th Congressional District.
“We were elected to Congress and joined the Congressional Black Caucus the same year, and worked together to advance critical issues on behalf of the American people. I will miss his friendship and his advocacy and passion for improving our world for generations to come,” Harris added.
McEachin leaves behind his wife, Colette, and three children.
