Carl Eggleston, known for decades of political and social involvement in Prince Edward County, was addressed and honored during a congressional session by U.S. Rep. Don Beyer Monday.

According to the Congressional Record from the House of Representatives session, Beyer gave a five-minute address about Eggleston, the odds he overcame following the closing of public schools in Prince Edward County, opening his funeral home, being the first African-American Chair of the 5th Congressional District Democratic Committee, and being the first African-American member of the Farmville Town Council. Eggleston has also run for mayor in the Town of Farmville.

Beyer, in his address, said he met Eggleston when he visited Eggleston’s home in 1988 while Beyer was beginning his run for office, and noted Eggleston’s involvement with garnering support for Beyer.

“He introduced me to the most important players in Democratic politics and virtually every important African-American in the state,” Beyer said. “I discovered that Carl was universally respected and liked and that his endorsement helped immensely.”

Beyer served two terms as Lieutenant Governor for Virginia, from 1990 to 1998. Since 2014, Beyer has served on the U.S. House of Representatives from Virginia’s 8th District, which includes Arlington County, portions of Fairfax County, Alexandria and Falls Church.

Beyer spoke about Eggleston’s impact on him both as a colleague and friend.

“I have never heard him utter an unkind word about another person. He is unfailingly loyal, trustworthy, and patient,” Beyer said. “He works every moment. He is the quiet civil rights leader and political force who has been responsible for so much for the forward progress in Virginia over the last generation.”

“Carl’s life is proof that there is always hope,” Beyer said.

Eggleston said he received a typed document of the address sent by Beyer’s office.

“I was shocked that he addressed congress and mentioned my name and told them about the relationship we had,” Eggleston said. “I didn’t know he did that until after it was all over.”

“He’s a good friend, and I was shocked that he did that. In fact, I’m so happy that he did that. It brings tears to my eyes when I read it.”

Beyer, in his address, references an autobiography Eggleston is writing that is set to be released in August.

Beyer released a statement Wednesday to The Herald about Eggleston’s biography, noting that he wanted to share the impact of Eggleston’s life prior to its release.

“I recently learned of the pending publication of Carl Eggleston’s autobiography,” Beyer said in the statement. “Suspecting it would be far too humble, I wanted to add my perspective to what has been an incredible and inspiring life.”

Eggleston said the autobiography not only reflects his history and experience, but the history of the county.

Commenting on Beyer’s congressional address, Eggleston said he was honored for his experience to have been shared.

“It mentioned that the speaker gave him five minutes,” Eggleston said, referencing the document. “What he talked about was my life.”