Longtime NC lawmaker Linda Johnson dies

Johnson went into a hospital two weeks ago after dealing with high blood pressure, and physicians determined she had suffered a stroke, according to a post on the CaringBridge website by her legislative assistant, Rhonda Todd.

Imaging of her skull also showed that she had tumors on her brain, Todd posted.

Johnson suffered another stroke on Sunday as she prepared to undergo radiation therapy for her cancer.

James White, principal clerk for the state House, emailed Tuesday evening, "It is with incredible sorrow that I share the news that Representative Linda Johnson has passed away. Arrangements are pending at this time."

Johnson served in the House for 19 years and was among the chamber's most powerful members, serving as a senior appropriations chair and co-chair of the joint education oversight committee.

"Linda Johnson had a beloved and infectious spirit that resonated throughout the North Carolina General Assembly every day, and the tragic news of her passing is a terrible loss for our legislative community, her family and the people she served in Cabarrus County," House Speaker Tim Moore said in a statement. "I know I speak for all my colleagues that she represented the very best of North Carolina and will always be remembered for her kind nature and powerful voice for public schools."

The Cabarrus County Republican Party will nominate someone to finish out her term this spring.