MOULTRIE, Ga. — The last time there was another person besides Luke Strong Jr. representing Colquitt County Commission District 1, a large number of his constituents had not been born.

Strong, who was elected in 1986 and was serving in his 30th year on the board, died on Sunday morning at Colquitt Regional Medical Center at age 70. He and Luke Strong III operated Luke Strong and Son Mortuary.

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“My whole life I remember him and Mr. George Walker sitting out front talking about things,” said Moultrie City Councilwoman Lisa Clarke Hill, referring to the elder Strong and late Moultrie Councilman George Walker Jr., who died in March 2011 after serving 19 years on the council. “He wasn’t just a businessman, he was a family man. He was a true public servant.”

Outside of his public role, Hill said, Strong was known as a person who someone down on his luck could approach for assistance. He often would give out of his own pocket or refer them to an agency that could provide help.

“He really tried to help anyone he could,” she said. “He didn’t advertise all the things he did for people. That’s what I always remember about him — friendly face, friendly smile.

“I’m at a loss. He was a pillar in our community. He will be missed terribly by the mayor and council and just generally Colquitt County.”

Strong, who took office in 1987, battled health problems for the last couple of years prior to his death and was not as active in county government as he once had been.

“Although he was absent from commission meetings for several months, I would sit down with him one-on-one and give him updates,” County Administrator Chas Cannon said. “I got to know him pretty well doing those one-on-one meetings. I enjoyed working with him.”

Strong also was witness to a lot of county history during his nearly three decades in office, Cannon said, and he was well-liked by the county’s employees.

“He was a good commissioner and represented his district well,” he said.

Fellow Commissioner Johnny Hardin also remembered Strong’s continued interested in the county. Strong would call him to come by and discuss an issue that needed addressing or to talk.

When Strong had his mind made up on an issue he stuck to his position, Hardin said. One of his most consistent concerns was for the employees.

“He stood for what he believed,” he said. “Luke was a voice. You want somebody that speaks up and questions things and makes sure the things we are doing are right. Luke was the one who asked those questions.”

Although Hardin, who took office in 2006, said he and Strong had some minor disagreements over the years, which is to be expected, Strong exemplified his goal of making Colquitt County a better place to live.

On a governmental body, it’s important that the members respect each other and their ideas, Hardin said. Strong gave and expected respect.

“He’s the kind of guy you’re proud you had the experience to work with him,” Hardin said. “I admired him.  He served his district and Colquitt County well. When you have a man of Luke Strong’s experience, it’s going to be hard to replace him.”

Moultrie Municipal Court Judge David Herndon, whose father Billy and mother Donna both served on the commission with Strong, said he and his family have lost a close, loyal friend.

“He was a priceless friend,” Herndon said. “He knew and helped everyone. He loved this community. He was sincere, dedicated and caring. He was a true joy to be around. He will be missed by us all.”