Former state senator honored on senate floor - Jerrika Insco reports

Former state senator honored on senate floor

A former state senator was given the highest level of honor a civilian can receive from the U.S. Senate.

Gene Huff was a senator for more than 26 years and also severed as a state representative.

Senator Mitch McConnell presented the tribute on the senate floor yesterday morning.

The tribute covered all aspects of the former senator's life, which is something his family is very appreciative of.

Former state senator and representative Gene Huff is in stable condition after battling a lung disease for nine years.

"The past probably three months have been extremely difficult. He just was released from the hospital yesterday afternoon," said Arlene Zawko, Huff's oldest daughter.

Senator Mitch McConnell heard about Huff's declining health and decided to honor him.

"Dad laid there and just enjoyed it. You could see he was listening to every word, and it was a well-done. It was just beautiful," said Marty Huff, Gene Huff's only son.

The tribute covered all aspects of his life.

"Just kind of an overview of his entire life from the time he was 19 years old until now, and he's 82," said Zawko.

"It was kind of sad because it kind of summed his life up, and we wondered how long will he be with us," said Marty Huff.

Huff's family says they were glued to the television as Senator McConnell read in front of the senate body.

"We all gathered in his room, and it was a very moving time. And we didn't know how it would be. Is he going to say enough? Because we have the greatest dad in the world," said Zawko.

The tribute for Former Senator Huff is the highest level of honor a civilian can receive from the senate.

Huff was also a minister for many years and retired from the senate 17 years ago.

Huff's family was informed that the congressional tribute will be recorded in the Library of Congress.

Senator McConnell's speech:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dtm_pG6Qi80