The news on Sunday of the passing of former Lt. Governor John Hager was heart-breaking. Virginia Republicans have lost a steadfast and loyal friend, a giant in the party.
Mr. Hager, who would have turned 84 on August 28, was chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia from August 2007 until May 2008.
From 1998-2002, he served as Virginia’s 37th Lieutenant Governor.
During President George W. Bush’s administration, Mr. Hager served as an assistant secretary in the U.S. Department of Education from 2004-2007.
Born in Durham, NC, he earned his undergraduate degree from Purdue University, the alma mater of his parents, and his MBA at Harvard in 1960. He served in the U.S. Army, rising to captain.
Mr. Hager was married to Maggie Chase in 1971. They had two sons, John and Henry. Henry is married to President and Mrs. George W. Bush’s daughter, Jenna.
Although Mr. Hager was in a wheelchair due to contracting polio in 1973, it never slowed him down, and he once competed in wheelchair races. Later, he was at almost every Virginia political event, a steady, supportive member of the party — a kind man who was a friend to many across the Commonwealth. He was always friendly and always willing to talk with everyone.
He may have been born in NC but John Hager was ever bit a Virginia gentleman. Bearing Drift offers prayers for his family and friends as they face the difficult days ahead.
Background: Former Lt. Gov. John H. Hager dies
