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Former Speaker Liston Ramsey will not seek 20th term in office

By Lisa Major's Duff
Former Speaker Liston Ramsey

Liston Ramsey

 Former House Speaker Liston Ramsey, a voice for Western North Carolina in Raleigh for more than three decades, is not seeking re-election.

"I am honored that the people have elected me to represent them for so many years," said Ramsey, the senior member of the N.C. House. "But it's time to spend more time in the mountains and give somebody else a chance to achieve the high honor of serving in the General Assembly."

Ramsey, 80, served as speaker of the House of Representatives from 1981-1988. He is the only person elected to that influential post four times.

"He's been a friend and mentor of mine for many years," said Phil Haire of Sylva, who shares the 52nd District seat with Ramsey in the N.C. House. "He commands so much respect among his peers. He is one of the greatest men in the history of Western North Carolina, and although he did a lot to help all the people of North Carolina, I don't think there's a person in Western North Carolina he didn't help."
"I'm sure I share a common feeling that Liston, in his lifetime, did more directly for Western North Carolina than anyone else," said N.C. Senator Dan Robinson of Cullowhee, who represents the 29th District. "He rose to one of the most politically powerful positions by his own ability, and the thing that endeared him to the people of Western North Carolina was that he never forgot where he came from.

"We've never had anyone in Raleigh who knew the needs and concerns of Western North Carolina as much as Liston," Robinson continued. "I can't say enough about the man."

A retired merchant who lives in Marshall, Ramsey won his first House election in 1960. After winning re-election in 1962, he was defeated in 1964. Even then, he traveled to Raleigh to look after the interests of his district.

Ramsey won the seat back in 1966 - and never lost it again. He has served 19 terms in the House.

Before his election to the House, Ramsey, a Democrat, served on the Marshall Board of Aldermen.

As a legislator, Ramsey was known for his fierce dedication to Western North Carolina and his ability to cut to the heart of an issue. He was quick to remind fellow lawmakers and state officials that their number one job was to represent the people.

"I have always look up to Liston and will continue to call on him for advice," said House Speaker Jim Black of Matthews. "No one knows more about the ins and outs of state government and the General Assembly. I treasure his friendship and counsel."

Ramsey won numerous awards over the years. The Liston B. Ramsey Regional Activity Center at Western Carolina University is named after him.

Liston Ramsey is one of two state representatives for the 52 House District, which includes Graham, Haywood, Madison, Swain and parts of Jackson counties.

While he is stepping down, Ramsey said he would not stop looking after the interests of Western North Carolina.

"I still know the way to Raleigh," he said.

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