A veteran Alabama lawmaker has died.

Jimmy Martin, R-Clanton, died Friday. He was 80. Martin represented House District 42 which covered Chilton and Autauga counties. He served 17 years in the Legislature, representing the district from 1998-2010 and being elected to his current term in 2014.

“Early this morning, state Representative Jimmy Martin lost his battle to cancer,” Gov. Kay Ivey said in a statement. “Alabama has truly lost a good man and statesman. His many years of service to the people of Autauga and Chilton counties have made a lasting impact on the future of the entire state.

“As we enter in the final moments of this legislative session, let us remember the contributions that Rep. Martin made throughout his tenure. His presence in the Alabama House of Representatives will be greatly missed. I offer my prayers to his family during this difficult time of loss.”

The governor has directed flags to be flown at half-staff on the grounds of the Alabama State Capitol Complex and in Autauga and Chilton counties to honor his life and service.

Martin Funeral Home in Clanton, a business Martin co-owned with family members, posted about his passing on the business’ Facebook Page.

“Dad, Jimmy Martin, went to be with our Heavenly Father early this morning,” the post reads. “He is healed, which is exactly what we have been praying for! We just made it home, so we will let everyone know the arrangements later today. Please continue to pray for our family as we go through these next several days. We love and appreciate All the love and prayers our family and friends have surrounded us with! Blessed!”

Retired Autauga County Sheriff Herbie Johnson reflected Friday on his six decade long friendship with Martin. Martin served as Chilton County coroner for several years before running for the Statehouse. Johnson was a young state trooper when they first met.

“That was the early, mid 1960s when I was just starting out with the troopers,” Johnson said. “Of course we had a professional relationship with him being the coroner up there in Chilton County. But it quickly developed in to a friendship with Jimmy, and the whole Martin family really.

“He was a good man, a good leader. He was my representative. The district line runs right down the middle of the road in front on my house. I’ve lost a good friend. And Alabama has lost a good leader.”

Ivey will call a special election to elect someone to fill out Martin’s unexpired term.