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Former governor's death called "a great loss"
BY BRIAN GRAVES

MORGANTON — Burke County officials were remembering Gov. Jim Holshouser with affection and respect Monday after learning of his passing only hours earlier in the day.

The former governor and native of Boone who won election to the office in 1972 died Monday morning at the age of 78.

Former Burke County GOP Chairman and current county commissioner Johnnie Carswell said Holshouser was a leader in the party.

“I remember when he became governor and, being from the western part of the state, we were very proud to see Jim go in,” Carswell said. “I think he was a very well liked governor and I think everyone appreciated how he handled the office and what he was able to accomplish.”

Morganton Mayor Mel Cohen remembered Holshouser as a dedicated public servant.

“He was a dedicated citizen of North Carolina and he represented the western part of the state very well,’ said Morganton Mayor Mel Cohen. “Those were the days of a one-term governor and it is difficult to get things done in one term, but he did the best he could. He was an outstanding public servant.”

Burke County Republican Party Chairman Richard Epley said he had met the Holshouser on a few occasions at state conventions.

“He was a real nice guy,” Epley recalled. “It’s a great loss for North Carolina and to Burke County. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family.”

Holshouser’s family released a statement saying he had been in declining health before his death at First Health of the Carolinas Medical Center in Pinehurst.

He earned a place in North Carolina history by becoming the state’s youngest governor at the age of 38 and the first Republican to hold the office in the 20th century.

Holshouser is remembered for establishing rural health clinics, laying the plan for a criminal justice information system and reorganizing state government.

He was an outspoken opponent of the death penalty for what he cited were religious reasons.

The former governor remained politically active, most recently serving as a transition advisor to Gov. Pat McCrory.

“James Holshouser was more than a friend and mentor, he was a genuine leader,” McCrory said in a statement. “He was a champion of education. He made health care available in counties that didn’t have doctors. And, he provided historic professional opportunities to woman and minorities. North Carolina is a better place because of his leadership and heart.”

Said Virginia Foxx, U.S. House member representing the 5th Congression District: “Watauga and North Carolina lost a great son today. Jim Holshouser, a native of Boone and personal friend of mine for a great many years, was known for his compassion, his kindness and his visionary leadership style.

“North Carolina bears the positive imprint of Governor Holshouser’s service, and Republicans and Democrats alike mourn his passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Holshouser family in this time of sadness and reflection. The gratitude of a great many North Carolinians are with them for sharing the governor with us so generously and for providing him with the strength and support he needed to take our state in the direction of a brighter future.”

Both of North Carolina’s U.S. senators also offered their praise and sympathies for Holshouser.

“Jim was such a good man and I’ve long admired his ability to work with Democrats and Republicans, said U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan. “Jim served during a time of great change in our nation. He appointed African-Americans to key positions and named the first woman to a cabinet-level position. Jim leaves behind many contributions to North Carolina.”

“Gov. Holshouser was one of the kindest and most sincere people to ever become involved in North Carolina politics,” said U.S. Sen. Richard Burr. “Staying true to his mountain roots, Jim would always shoot you straight and stay true to his word. All North Carolinians have lost one of the true statesmen of our time.”

Former Gov. Jim Hunt had been working with Holshouser on the issue of voluntary public campaign financing for appellate court judges.

“I worked with a lot of governors over my lifetime and I know I have never known one who was a finer human being,” Hunt said.

Holshouser’s wife, Pat, died in 2006. His survivors include a daughter, Ginny Mills. Funeral arrangements for the former governor were pending Monday afternoon.