Lula Young, the wife of Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska), died Sunday of natural causes. She was 67.

Young died at the couple’s home in Great Falls, Va., according to a release from Don Young’s office.

“Lu was my everything, and I am heartbroken,— said the Alaska Republican in the statement. “This has come as a shock to all of us.—

“She has always been by my side and loved and supported me and I am blessed to have her as my life partner,— he said. “There are no words to express my grief right now. I am a man of strong faith, and I know she is in good hands with our Lord, and will always be with me, our daughters, and our grandchildren.—

Young was a fixture in her husband’s Congressional office, frequently offering visitors refreshments as they waited to meet with the Alaska lawmaker. The couple was married for 46 years.

Don Young’s close relationship with his wife was well-known in the House and Alaska. When she suffered a stroke in 2003, rumors circulated that he may retire.

In 2005, he added her name to the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users or SAFETEA-LU, as a tribute.

In addition to her husband, Lula Young is survived by two daughters and 14 grandchildren.