HAMLET — Richmond County lost a former elected official on Thursday with the death of J. Richard Conder.
Born in Hamlet, Conder held several elected positions throughout his life.
He served on the Richmond County Board of Commissioners and was later elected to seven terms in the N.C. Senate. During his time in the Senate, Conder served as chairman of the Education Committee.
Conder was also on the N.C. Utilities Commission.
The Learning Resources Center at Richmond Community College bears his name.
Current Sen. Tom McInnis, R-Richmond, released a statement Thursday afternoon regarding the loss of Conder and Sheriff James Clemmons.
“Today is a very sad day for the citizens of Richmond County with the loss of Sheriff James Clemmons and Former Senator J. Richard Conder,"McInnis said. "These two men represented our county with integrity, honor and service. We are fortunate to have had their leadership and their dedication to every citizen of Richmond County and the 25th Senate District. Their service to our community was unparalleled and will benefit future generations. Please join me in prayer for their families and friends as we go through these sad days ahead.”
Conder, who was living in Charlotte, was 91.
