While we all knew this news was inevitable, we think all West Virginians felt a tiny bit of shock Monday when we heard of the death of Sen. Robert C. Byrd. He has served the state for so long and his name is so common that it rolls off our tongues like applebutter or moonshine.

He has served in state or national offices for the past 64 years. That is an incredible record of service, but even more impressive to us was his attendance rate in the U.S. Senate of 98 percent. We’re sure very few politicians, in any office, can boast such dedication.

Byrd served West Virginia well, particularly through his work on the Appropriations Committee, and conse- quently his name will live on for years in this great state. May he rest well.