Wash. Rep. Bill Grant dies of lung cancer

WALLA WALLA, Wash. —

Rep. Bill Grant has died just one month after he was diagnosed with lung cancer.

Grant, 71, died at a hospital in Walla Walla on Sunday, House Democratic spokeswoman Melinda McCrady said Monday.

Grant, who had served 22 years in the Legislature, was re-elected in November. He represented the 16th District, which covers Walla Walla and Columbia counties, as well as portions of Benton and Franklin Counties.

His seat will be filled by an appointment until a special election can be held in November, McCrady said.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy, four children and 11 grandchildren.