Davis was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and had a re-occurrence earlier this year.

According to a statement from her office, she had been receiving breast cancer treatment at Duke University and recently had received positive reports on her condition. But last week Davis’ health took a turn for the worse.

President Bush said Davis’ “determination to fight the disease is an inspiration to all of us.”

Bush also praised Davis for her service in Congress, highlighting her support for the military and fiscal restraint.

“Over the course of her four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, she was an effective advocate for the people of her district and a strong supporter of our men and women in uniform,” the president said.

House Republican Conference Chairman Adam Putnam (R-Fla.) praised Davis’s dedication to serving in spite of her illness.

“When Jo Ann was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, no one would have blamed her had she chosen to retire, but instead she pressed on, continued to serve with distinction the people of the Commonwealth and the country she loved, and beat the disease,” Putnam said in a statement.

Davis won in 2006 with 63 percent of the vote. Her 1st District, which stretches from Fredericksburg to Williamsburg, is solidly Republican. President Bush won there in 2004 with 60 percent of the vote.

Details of the funeral services will be forthcoming, Davis’s office said.