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RALEIGH – Wake County Commissioner Harold Webb resigned from his post on Wednesday. The 84-year-old was appointed to the board in 2003 and won re-election twice since then. Last year, the board elected him chairman.

Last September, he suffered a stroke that forced him to miss a lot of meetings and has made it difficult for him to put his thoughts into words.

“He struggled with the decision because he was a good commissioner, but he couldn't do everything he wanted to do,” said former Wake County Democratic Party Chairman Jack Nichols.

“He's a pride and joy of Wake County and has given more than can be expected of anyone,” said Sen. Dan Blue.

On a board that's seen so much partisan division recently, political leaders say Commissioner Webb could bring people together, no matter what their party affiliation.

“I think of him as a mediator,” said Nichols. “He brought people together in a quiet way.”

“We have developed a friendship that goes beyond party lines,” said Wake County Commissioner Joe Bryan.

However, some republicans question the timing of Webb's resignation. Had it been just a few weeks ago, there would have been an election to select his replacement but by waiting until now, the democratic party will pick his successor. Thus, securing the seat for democrats.

“I'm sure that was a factor in Webb's decision. He was a lifelong yellow dog democrat,” said Nichols.

In his resignation letter, Webb wrote, “Although I will certainly miss the day to day responsibilities of the office, I will cherish and remember with fondness the friends made during my time on the board."

Webb has a lifetime of public service. He was a Tuskegee Airman in World War II and a teacher, principal, and deputy state superintendent.

The Wake County Democratic Party plans to select Webb's replacement at a meeting on Tuesday.