Georgia Congressman David Scott dies at age 80
Representative David Scott of Georgia died at the age of 80 after the House vote the day before, prompting tributes from Democratic leaders and affecting the narrow Republican majority.
The late Georgia congressman David Scott will be back under the Gold Dome for the final time on Friday.
Just a day after the House vote, U.S. Representative Scott died on April 22 at the age of 80.
The longtime politician represented Georgia’s 13th Congressional District, which includes parts of Clayton, Henry, Rockdale, Newton, Gwinnett, and DeKalb counties in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Scott’s office announced that a memorial service for the Atlanta-area representative will be held on May 1st at the Georgia State Capitol.
“Congressman Scott’s family would like to thank Governor Kemp for extending this honor and the incredible outpouring of grief, love, and support from countless friends, constituents, and elected officials who have known Congressman throughout his life or who have been helped by him,” the Congressman’s team said in a statement.
When is David Scott’s memorial service?
A celebration of life, open to the public, begins at 11 a.m. Friday, May 1, at the State Capitol.
After the ceremony, Scott will lie in state at the Capitol until 5 p.m., when Georgians can pay their respects.
“Please be advised to arrive early to attend the commemoration as there is only one entrance to the Georgia State Capitol and security screening is required,” Scott’s office said. “The Georgia Department of Buildings will open its South Deck and parking will be free. The closest MARTA stop to the Capitol is Georgia.”
Scott’s funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 2nd at Elizabeth Baptist Church, 4245 Cascade Road SW, Atlanta.
“In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the David Scott Foundation, which provides financial assistance to high school graduates who are residents of Georgia’s 13th Congressional District and plan to attend an HBCU,” Scott’s office said in a statement.
Scott’s public service celebrated
Concerns about Scott’s health have circulated on Capitol Hill in recent years, as he seeks re-election to the House in the 2026 midterm elections. The cause of death was not initially released, and Scott’s office said his death was “unexpected.” His office later confirmed that he died of natural causes.
Mr. Scott has served in the Georgia State Legislature since 1974 and for more than 20 years.
After completing his education, Scott moved to Atlanta and started an advertising business, Dayn-Mark Advertising. He married Alfredia Aaron and became the brother-in-law of Atlanta Braves legend Hank Aaron.
He first became active in politics in 1972, when he participated in Andrew Young’s parliamentary campaign and was instrumental in Young’s success. He ran solo in 1974 and was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives, where he served until 1982.
During his 24 years as a Congressman, Mr. Scott served on the Financial Services Committee, the Agriculture Committee, and the NATO Congress.
During his tenure, Scott focused on climate change, criminal justice and law enforcement reform, education, health care, housing, immigration, labor and employment, transportation and infrastructure, and veterans affairs, according to his office.
Georgia Sen. Raphael Warnock said in a statement on April 22: “David Scott was a Georgian’s Georgian. For decades, Congressman Scott epitomized public service for our state. Throughout his years in the Georgia State Legislature and then the U.S. Congress, he made uplifting and supporting the people of Georgia his top priority.”
Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff said in a statement that Scott “dedicated his life to public service and the state of Georgia.” He said Georgia is “a better place because of Congressman Scott’s efforts.”
Eileen Wright covers Georgia politics as an Atlanta Connect reporter for USA Today’s Deep South Connect team. X Find her at @IreneEWright or email her at ismith@usatodayco.com.
