Former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe passes away at 89

It was announced on Tuesday that former United States Senator Jim Inhofe has passed away at the age of 89.

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - It was announced on Tuesday that former United States Senator Jim Inhofe has passed away at the age of 89.

According to the Inhofe family, he passed away at 4:48 a.m. after a stroke over the holiday.

Governor Kevin Stitt released a statement regarding his death.

"Sarah and I are saddened by the news of the passing of Senator Inhofe and our hearts go out to Kay, their children and grandchildren. Jim was a generational Oklahoman who relentlessly championed our veterans, never wavered in protecting our values, and a firm believer in the American Dream. Jim will be remembered as a true statesman and public servant— and a fighter for Oklahoma. In honor of his memory and service, I'm ordering all flags on state property to be flown at half-staff until tomorrow evening."

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt (R)

U.S. Representative Kevin Hern also released a statement.

“Senator Jim Inhofe was a dear friend and mentor, a titan in Oklahoma, and a highly effective leader in DC,” said Rep. Hern. “Tammy and I are keeping Kay and the rest of the Inhofe family in our prayers. Jim spent his life in service to his country, both in uniform and in the halls of Congress. He will always be remembered as a fighter, especially for our military service members. Jim’s legacy of service, leadership, and faith reflect the Oklahoma Standard and the pride he held in his work. Along with the family, friends, and many Oklahomans who knew and loved him, I mourn the loss of a great man.”

U.S. Representative Kevin Hern, R, OK-01

Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat also responded Tuesday morning.

“Senator Inhofe was a resolute Republican who served his state and nation for nearly six decades in various roles,” Pro Tem Treat said. “Unwavering in his beliefs and conservative values, he championed many causes during his career, including his support for the military, national defense and infrastructure. His dedication and influence in shaping policies in both Oklahoma and on a national level have left a lasting impact. My wife Maressa and I send our heartfelt condolences and prayers to his family and many friends.”

Oklahoma Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City

Congressman Frank Lucas responded as well, saying this is a great loss for Oklahoma and the country.

"Today, Oklahoma and the entire country mourn the loss of Senator Jim Inhofe.

"The true embodiment of a public servant, Jim spent five decades faithfully serving the people of Oklahoma with the utmost integrity and purpose. His calling to do so began in the Oklahoma Legislature and later as the mayor of Tulsa, where he proved to be a selfless steward of his community. 

"His long career in the United States House and Senate serves as a testament to his strong moral compass and innate desire to better his home state. From being a larger-than-life advocate for Oklahoma’s military installations to improving infrastructure across the state, Jim Inhofe has made an impact on Oklahomans that will be felt for generations. "Watching and learning under his leadership has only strengthened my sense of duty, and I have always used his character as a guidepost in my endeavors. Lynda and I join Oklahomans everywhere in mourning this great loss and praying for his family."

Congressman Frank Lucas, R, OK-03

Inhofe was the longest serving U.S. Senator in Oklahoma history, he retired in 2022.

Inhofe was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on November 17, 1934. His family says he passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife Kay, and his three surviving children, Molly, Jimmy and Katy. His son Perry died in a plane accident several years ago in Tulsa.