Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly dies at 75

(NBC, KYMA/KECY) - U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly has passed away.

Connolly, a Democratic congressman from Virginia, died Wednesday morning following a battle with esophageal cancer, according to a statement from his family.

The statement reads in part, "Gerry lived his life to give back to others and make our community better. He looked out for the disadvantaged and voiceless."

He was first elected to Congress in 2008.

Connolly served as the top Democrat on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform until late last month when he stepped down due to his illness.

Virginia Senator Mark Warner said he was "heartbroken" after learning of his death.

Connolly was 75.