Smith, a 78-year-old Republican from Columbus, died shortly after contracting the flu.

ATLANTA — Richard Smith, a Georgia Republican who led the powerful state House committee that decides the legislative voting agenda, died suddenly after contracting the flu. He was 78 years old.

Smith, who represented Columbus, was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2004. He was appointed chairman of the House Rules Committee in 2020.

Speaker Jon Burns told House members Tuesday morning that Smith passed overnight.

"(Smith) embodied what it meant to be a statesman," Burns wrote. "He loved this House, each and every one of you, and the work we accomplished together — much of which because of his leadership."

Gov. Brian Kemp praised Smith's legislative career, calling him a "valued friend."

"He represented the Columbus area we and had an important impact on the entire state during his time as chairman of the House Rules Committee. Richard has been my friend and colleague, for close to 20 years. As we reflect on his years of service and steady leadership, we ask that all Georgians join us in praying for his loved ones and keeping the Columbus community in your thoughts," Kemp said.

House Minority Leader James Beverly and the Georgia House Democrats offered condolences to Smith's "wife, family, loved ones, and all who were touched by his leadership."

“It is with great sadness that I found out today that Chairman Smith has passed," Beverly said. "Words cannot begin to express my sorrow for his family, for his friends, and for the House. My deepest condolences and my prayers are with the Smith family as they mourn the loss of their beloved family member."

Former State Rep. Calvin Smyre, a Columbus Democrat who previously served as House Rules chairman, told 11Alive that Smith was a "dear friend."

"He was a steady hand and trusted colleague for me over many years. We shared a great friendship. My prayers and thoughts are with Clara and the entire Smith family. He will be dearly missed in the Columbus community, the General Assembly and the State of Georgia," Smyre said.

Smith served on the Columbus Council before being elected to the Georgia legislature. He previously served as chairman of the House Insurance Committee.