Former Georgia State Representative Ben Harbin Found Dead

News Summary

Ben Harbin, a former Georgia State Representative, was found dead in a hotel room in Augusta at the age of 61. The cause of death was determined to be natural, with no signs of foul play. Harbin served in the Georgia House from 1994 to 2015, where he held significant leadership roles. Friends and colleagues remember him for his dedication to public service and his ability to work across party lines. His passing has prompted condolences from various political figures in Georgia.

Augusta, GA – Former Georgia State Representative Ben Harbin was found dead on Wednesday evening at the Fairfield Inn on Washington Road in Augusta. Harbin, aged 61, was pronounced dead by the Richmond County coroner at approximately 7:12 p.m. The authorities have reported that the cause of death has been determined as natural, with no indications of foul play suspected.

According to friends and family members, Harbin was in Augusta to attend an event honoring his deceased daughter. Family members discovered his body after going to check on him at the hotel. Reports indicate that Harbin had been dealing with health issues prior to his passing.

Harbin had a long and impactful career as a public servant, serving in the Georgia House of Representatives from 1994 until 2015, during which he represented District 122 for nearly two decades. Throughout his legislative career, he held several significant positions, including serving as the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee and vice chair of the Health Appropriations Committee. He also chaired the Telecommunications subcommittee of Energy, Utilities, & Telecommunications, along with the Sales Tax Subcommittee of Ways and Means.

In 2015, Harbin stepped down from his legislative position after losing in the Republican primary. Following his departure from state politics, he transitioned into a role as a lobbyist with the Southern Strategy Group. Additionally, he owned the Harbin Company, partnered with Harbin and Associates, and worked as an agent with Farm Bureau Insurance.

The news of Harbin’s passing has elicited condolences from various political figures. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed his sorrow and acknowledged Harbin’s dedication and contributions as a public servant. Among his accomplishments, Harbin played a crucial role during the Great Recession, helping to maintain Georgia’s AAA bond rating.

House Speaker John Burns recognized Harbin’s diligence as a public servant, crediting him with significantly shaping the state’s success. Furthermore, former colleague Mark Butler highlighted Harbin’s ability to assist individuals in need, irrespective of their political affiliations. This trait, along with his commitment to placing the needs of Georgians above partisan politics, earned him the respect of both Republican and Democratic colleagues.

Friends and acquaintances have described Harbin as a loyal and steady individual with a good sense of humor. Gloria Frazier, a former Democratic lawmaker, acknowledged his support for essential funding for individuals suffering from sickle-cell disease, reflecting his willingness to cross party lines for the greater good.

Harbin is remembered as a leader who maintained strong relationships across political differences and was known for not always adhering to party lines if he felt it was the wrong course of action. His contributions to Georgia’s legislative landscape and his compassionate approach to public service will be missed by many.

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HERE Resources

Former Georgia State Representative Ben L. Harbin Found Dead
Dr. Aaron J. Kruse-Diehr Appointed Chair of Community Health at Augusta University
Former Georgia House Representative Ben L. Harbin Found Dead

Additional Resources

• Augusta Chronicle
• Fox 5 Atlanta
• WJBF
• State Affairs: Ben Harbin Obituary
• Wikipedia: Ben Harbin