Today, Congressman Patrick McHenry (NC-10) released the following statement on the death of former Parkdale Mills Chairman and lifelong Gastonia resident Duke Kimbrell:

“Gaston County, the state of North Carolina, and the textile industry as a whole have lost a true titan with the passing of Parkdale Mills Chairman Duke Kimbrell. 

"From sweeping the floors at a mill while in high school, to eventually taking over the very same company, Mr. Kimbrell grew Parkdale Mills into one of the world’s preeminent textile companies in his over 70 years with the company.  He embodied the American Dream, where hard work, intelligence and dogged perseverance are well rewarded. 

"A World War II veteran who attended NC State University on the GI Bill, Mr. Kimbrell was a philanthropic giant and proud lifelong Gastonia resident who will be sorely missed.  My thoughts and prayers are with his family as they mourn his passing.”