Former 6th District Congressman Howard Coble died Tuesday night. He was 84 years old.

Coble's brother confirmed his death to WFMY News 2 Wednesday morning.

"J. Howard Coble passed away at 11:40 p.m., Nov. 3 after an extended hospitalization. The family wishes to thank Dr. Ali Hajazi and the staff of the Select Specialty Hospital in Greensboro for their excellent care. The community will be notified of funeral arrangements when complete," Ray Coble Jr. said.

Coble, the longest serving GOP congressman from North Carolina, was known for his colorful plaid suit jackets. His 30-year representation came to an end when he decided not to seek re-election in 2014 due to health reasons.

He was admitted to the ICU in September after complications from skin cancer surgery.

"Howard Coble was a dedicated public servant and a champion for his constituents. He never backed down from a challenge to do what was right for NC & always pushed Washington to work better for those he represented," Rep. Virginia Foxx, his longtime Republican colleague from North Carolina, wrote in a series of tweets.

"He will be missed, but his legacy of service & devotion to NC will continue to be the standard that current and future leaders follow," she said.

Born in Greensboro, N.C., he was a member of the U.S. Coast Guard, as well as a practicing lawyer.

"The whole House mourns the passing of Howard Coble. He was a first-rate representative for the people of North Carolina, a proud advocate of the U.S. Coast Guard and one of the friendliest people to serve in the House," House Speaker Paul Ryan said in a statement Wednesday. "Howard always stuck to his principles and set an example of decency for us all. We will miss him. Our condolences go out to the Coble family."

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