State Legislator George Bandy Dead at 72

Alabama legislator George Bandy of Opelika has died.

Alabama House of Representatives spokesman Clay Redden said Bandy died Tuesday at a Georgia hospital. He was 72.

Lawmakers were told last week that Bandy had been hospitalized for pulmonary and circulatory issues.

Bandy, a Democrat, was first elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in 1994. He represented House District 83, which includes parts of Lee and Russell counties.

Bandy had also served as pastor at Saint James Missionary Baptist Church in Opelika.

Alabama Speaker of the House Mac McCutcheon (R – Monrovia) released the following statement regarding the passing of State Rep. George Bandy (D – Opelika):

“Rep. Bandy dedicated almost a quarter century of his life to serving his state, his district, and the citizens of Lee and Russell counties.  The institutional knowledge that he gathered during his long service often provided needed insight and guidance to his colleagues.  We will miss his presence in the hallways, committee rooms, and chambers of the Alabama State House.”

McCutcheon will lead the House in a moment of silence for Bandy and his surviving family members at the end of Tuesday’s proceedings in the chamber.

U.S. Senator Doug Jones released the following statement today after the passing of State Representative George Bandy:

“Louise and I are praying for the family and friends of long-time State Representative George Bandy, who passed away this morning. We are grateful for the legacy he built as he served the communities of Lee and Russell, and our state, with honor and integrity for more than 20 years.”

Governor Kay Ivey released the following statement on the passing of state Representative George Bandy:

“I am saddened to hear of the death of state Representative George Bandy. Since his election in 1994, he has been a dedicated public servant to the people of Lee and Russell counties. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and fellow legislators during this difficult time.”

Rep. Bandy was Chair of the Alabama House of Representative’s Lee County Legislation committee and served on the State Government and Transportation Utilities and Infrastructure committees.

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