PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A prominent member of the Pasco County Republican Party has passed away.

Bill Bunting was 79 years old. He played a big part in getting local and state Republicans elected to office.

"We've lost a warhorse for the Republican Party and we've all lost a dear friend," said Randy Evans, Chairman of the Republican Party of Pasco County. 

In an interview, Evans said Bunting got things done, even if he had his own style about doing them. 

"Some people would see him as being rough around the edges. And possibly abrasive. But he was a doer," Evans said. 

Bunting was part of the Pasco County GOP since 1991, wearing various hats, including chairman of the party for several years. 

He raised a lot of money and advocated​ for GOP candidates through the years. He helped build the the Pasco Republicans into the dominant party in the county. 

He also worked on statewide campaigns, even earning a visit from Sen. Rick Scott, thanking him for his efforts during the 2018 campaign.  

Evans says he's not only lost a valued member of the local party but a dear friend.

"It's just a sad time," Evans said. "We'll get through it. I don't think anyone will be able to replace him. He was just great on so many levels."