Former U.S. representative, Columbus attorney passes away from natural causes

By Alex Jones | January 23, 2019 at 2:29 PM EST - Updated January 23 at 10:49 PM

COLUMBUS, GA (WTVM) - A prominent attorney and former U.S. congressman from Columbus has passed away.

Jack T. Brinkley died at approximately 7:25 a.m. in the emergency room of St. Francis Hospital at the age of 88.

Brinkley served eight terms as a U.S. congressman from 1967 to 1983 and one year in the Georgia House of Representatives from 1965 to 1966.

He was taken to the emergency room for difficulty breathing and diagnosed with cardiac arrest, according to Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan.

His manner death has been ruled natural.

Congressman Sanford Bishop issued the following statement on the Brinkley’s passing:

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend, former Congressman Jack Brinkley,” said Congressman Bishop. “He was a great representative in Washington for our area and he served us with great distinction. Our nation has lost an exceptional public servant, and I have lost a trusted friend and mentor. Georgia and the nation are truly better because of his service and we extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.