John M. Slack, Jr.

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John Mark Slack, Jr. (March 18, 1915 - March 17, 1980) was an American politician from West Virginia. He was a Democrat.

He was born Charleston, where he attended the public schools. Later he studied in Virginia Military Institute at Lexington, Virginia.

His public service career began in 1948, when he became a member of Kanawha County Court. He sits in this court until 1952. His next public position was a Kanawha County assessor (1952-1958).

When three-term 6th district Representative Robert Byrd decided against seeking renomination in order to became U.S. Senator (he won an election and now is the longest-serving Senator in history), Slack won the Democratic nomination and was easily elected in November. He was reelected 11 more times, never facing serious opposition. His district was renumbered as the 3rd District in 1963, after West Virginia lost a district as a result of the 1960 Census.

Slack served until his death in Alexandria, Virginia. He was replaced by John G. Hutchinson, winner of a special election, who served until end of term.

He was interred in Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans, W.Va.

Preceded by Robert Byrd	Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from West Virginia's 6th congressional district 1959 – 1963	District eliminated
Preceded by Cleveland M. Bailey	Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from West Virginia's 3rd congressional district 1963 – 1980	Succeeded by John G. Hutchinson