JONESBORO, Ark. (AP) - Craighead County Democrats are gathering in Jonesboro to honor former Arkansas congressman Marion Berry.

A luncheon in Berry's honor is planned for noon Friday at the Jonesboro Country Club.

Benton Smith, the chairman of the Craighead County Democratic Central Committee, says Berry has dedicated his career to making eastern Arkansas better for all of its residents.

Berry represented east Arkansas' 1st District for seven terms. The Democrat underwent surgery last year to remove a brain tumor and later was diagnosed with lymphoma. His family has said his cancer has been in remission since last year.

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