Donice Harbor, a long-time staffer to Gov. Beverly Perdue, died this week of breast cancer.

Perdue appointed Harbor to run the Office of Citizen and Faith Outreach. Harbor worked for Perdue before she was elected governor.

Perdue paid tribute to Harbor on her Web site Friday.

During the 10 years we worked together, she became like a member of my family, and I never hesitated to turn to her when I needed guidance. Donice lived her life with faith and with a wisdom, kindness and grace that made her truly special...

Gov.-elect Beverly Perdue has appointed Donice Harbor to direct an Office of Citizen and Faith Outreach.

Harbor, a long-time Perdue staffer, will oversee contact with the public, constituent groups and religious organizations. She will ensure a diverse pool of applicants for boards and commissions.

"Donice Harbor has been an invaluable member of my team for the past eight years," Perdue said in a news release. "Donice will play a key role in making sure that my administration is open and accessible to all North Carolinians."

Harbor held a similar post when Perdue was lieutenant governor.

Prior to working with Perdue, Harbor was a research assistant and legislative liaison to the late state Sen. Jeanne Lucas.