Capitol packed with King's mourners

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Thousands made their way to the state capitol Friday for a chance to say goodbye to New Mexico's longest serving governor—Bruce King.

King passed away last Friday at the age of 85.

There was a variety of emotions on display at the capitol, including hugs, tears, smiles and even some laughter.

Around the rotunda, it seemed like everyone had their own story to tell about King.

Around 8:30 a.m. Friday, the honor guard carried the former governor into the roundhouse. They then draped a flag bearing the state seal over his casket.

All sorts of mourners made the trip to Santa Fe, from ranchers to senators. Some said King was like no other politician, and the rancher turned governor believed a hand shake meant more than a signature.

"I think his legacy is going to be that he was genuine man," King's neighbor Steve Anaya said. "For the ranchers and the cowboys, he's a good 'ol boy gone."

"He was, he was just a champion for us," Laine Renfor Sedillo said.

"He said what's most important is that people trust you more than necessary the right policies, that you establish a bond with people," Gov. Bill Richardson said.

Richardson joked about a rumor that King shook the hand of every New Mexican. That may be hyperbole, but many said what King did will affect New Mexicans for generations to come.

Funeral services for Bruce King will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday at the Moriarty High School Gymnasium. Former President Bill Clinton will be among the speakers.