Ike Skelton, a Democratic congressman who was dismissed in 2010 after more than 30 years of service in Missouri district, died on Monday at the age of 81, Democratic leaders informed.

Best known as an expert on national defense and served as the chairman of House Armed Services Committee in 2007, Ike died at Virginia Hospital Center "after a brief illness" according to his family.

"Skelton was beloved and respected by colleagues on both sides of the aisle," President Barack Obama said.

"He led an exemplary life of honor, courage and public service," Maurice Watson, the chairman of Husch Blackwell, said in a statement. "His commitment to our country, the state of Missouri and the men and women who serve our nation in the armed services was unsurpassed."

Ike Skelton was known for being a social conservative who opposed abortion rights and Obama's Affordable Care Act. In the other side, he supported gun rights and continuously visited Guam knowing it has strategic importance.