The first African-American member of Congress in Ohio, Louis Stokes, died late Tuesday.

Stokes died of lung and brain cancer at the age of 90, according to USA Today.

"During his illness, he confronted it as he did life -- with bravery and strength. He was always guided by faith, while embracing the prayers and well wishes of family, friends and constituents," Stokes' family said in a statement.

He died with his wife of 55 years by his side, according to the statement.

The former congressman served the 21st and 11th District of Ohio for three decades. He was elected to Congress on his first bid to public office on Nov. 6, 1968. Since then, he has served 15 consecutive terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.

"He loved Cleveland and was honored to have the opportunity to represent its citizens in the United States Congress. He was equally committed to our family, and his love knew no bounds. It is this enduring love that will sustain us in the days and years to come," the statement continued.

Stokes celebrated his 90th birthday earlier this year. In January, he was appointed as one of 18 members to the Community-Police Relations task force by Ohio Gov. John Kasich. The force was set up to build relationships between police and their communities.

"As one of the founding members of the Congressional Black Caucus, he [Stokes] gave a voice to what we now refer to as 'the conscience of the Congress.' He was a remarkable Member who advocated for his constituents and his state, while working to empower African Americans and address the needs of working-class families," House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer said in a statement. 

Stokes was the first African-American to earn the Congressional Distinguished Service Award. He practiced law for 14 years before serving in Congress and was the recipient of 27 honorary doctorate degrees.