LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky state Sen. Tom Buford has died, Senate President Pro Tempore David Givens announced Tuesday. He was 72 years old.

What You Need To Know

  • Kentucky state Sen. Tom Buford has died at 72 years old

  • Buford represented the 22nd District for more than 30 years

  • Lawmakers mourned Buford's passing Tuesday

  • Buford was a member of several committees

Buford, of Nicholasville, represented the 22nd District in the Kentucky Senate for more than 30 years. He served as Senate Republican whip from 1991 to 1992.

Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle mourned Buford’s passing Tuesday, expressing condolences for his family members.

In a statement, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell recalled Buford as a “a giant of the Kentucky Senate.”

“I had the pleasure of working closely with Tom and know how deeply committed he was to our state and its people,” McConnell said. “Tom was unafraid to take on tough issues and fought hard for Kentucky’s most vulnerable, with a special focus on the disabled. The impact of his work could be felt far beyond the borders of his State Senate district, improving the lives of Kentuckians throughout the Commonwealth.”

On behalf of the Kentucky Senate Majority Office, Givens said Buford’s “wit, intellect, and zest for life will be missed by all who knew him.”

A statement from Kentucky Senate Democratic Caucus remembered Buford as a “true public servant who was full of life, laughter, and had a contagious laughter that could light up any room.”

Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear, in a tweet, said, “I am sad to hear of the passing of Senator Tom Buford. Britainy and I pray for solace and peace for his family.”

Buford was a member of the Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee, Senate Banking and Insurance Committee and The Senate Licensing and Occupations Committee.