Fmr. State House doorkeeper dies at 106

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- The long-time House of Representatives doorkeeper at the Rhode Island State House has died.

Frank DiPaolo spent more than 30 years at the State House in that role.

He was well-known and well-liked by lawmakers, especially former Congressman Patrick Kennedy, who called DiPaolo his mentor and long-time friend.

Kennedy's replacement in the House, Rep. David Cicilline, called DiPaolo "a true son of Providence."

DiPaolo first began his career in politics in 1928 while working for then-New York Governor Al Smith.

While serving as doorkeeper, he was the only person ever honored with the title of Speaker Emeritus.

Rep. Cicilline released a statement to Eyewitness News that read in part: "I will always remember the wonderful moments last fall when Frank accompanied Patrick and campaigned for me throughout Rhode Island.  My thoughts and prayers are with the entire DiPaolo family during this difficult time."

Frank DiPaolo retired from his job at the State House in 2010.

He was 106 years old.