In his honor and to pay respect to their colleague, the House stood in a moment of silence on the chamber floor at midday.

 Statement from Speaker Calvin Say: 

Hawaii has lost a true public servant and community leader. Sam’s experience as a diplomat took him around the world, but he returned to Hawaii to give back to our community. It is with gratitude that we remember Rep. Sam Lee and his many contributions to our state.

In addition to serving in the House from 1986 to 1996, Samuel Sang Hoy Lee was a U.S. diplomat and community organizer. He is survived by his wife of forty-five years, four children and six grandchildren.