CHALMETTE — State Rep. Mike Bayham has died, his colleagues with the Louisiana House Republicans said Thursday morning. He was 52.

"We are grateful for his service, dedication and contributions to the people of Louisiana. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time," the delegation of state GOP representatives said in a statement.

State Rep. Dixon McMakin, who represents Baton Rouge, called Bayham "a friend, a proud Louisianan, and someone who truly loved serving the people of his district and our great state."

"One of the hardest parts of public service is saying goodbye to the people you have the privilege of serving alongside. We spend countless hours together, fighting for what we believe in, sharing stories, laughing, and building friendships that go far beyond the walls of the Capitol," McMakin said in a statement. "Today, the Louisiana House has lost one of its own, and I’ve lost a friend."

Earlier this week, WBRZ reported that Bayham, who was elected to serve Louisiana's 103rd House District in St. Bernard Parish in 2023, was gravely ill.