GREENSBORO- Longtime North Carolina Congressman Howard Coble was laid to rest on Tuesday.
Coble was eulogized by fellow politicians, friends and family during memorial services in Greensboro.
Many made their way into Westover Church to pay their respects.
"I just want to pay my respects for him because he's been one of the best," said Bill Eastwood, American Legion Post 53.
Ed McDonald was Coble's former chief of staff.
"What you saw in public, that's what I saw behind the scenes. He was just like that," said McDonald.
"He left an example of genuinely loving the people he represented. I think that's why he was effective," said Rep. Mark Walker, 6th District.
Coble died last week at age 84. With 30 years on Capitol Hill, Coble is the longest-serving Republican U.S. House member in North Carolina history.
Gov. McCrory said he had to take a moment when he got news of Coble's passing.
"In that moment of silence, in the second floor of the executive mansion, all by myself, with 70 foot ceilings, I cried," said McCrory.
Mccrory said Coble stayed true to his values.
"He was kind. He was humble and appreciated every single day of his life like no one I've ever met before," said McCrory.
Coble was proudest of his service to voters during his 30 years on Capitol Hill.
"He worked hard, faithfully and successfully, for his constituents. His work ethic was grounded in the principals of loving God and his neighbors with intensity and enthusiasm," said Robin Hayes, former congressman.
And his example will live on.
"We can never repay Howard for all he did for us....But we can and always remember his kindness, humility and grace, of our congressman," said McCrory.
Coble announced in 2013 that he wouldn't seek a 16th term.
He was hospitalized in September from complications from skin cancer surgery and died on Election Day.