Former Kentucky Gov. John Y. Brown Jr. has died.
Brown, 88, passed away on Monday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced on Tuesday.
“I am sad to share that former Governor John Y. Brown Jr. passed away yesterday,” Beshear said. “Gov. Brown was a remarkable leader who was committed to serving the people of Kentucky. He made our commonwealth a better place. Britainy and I are praying for his family and loved ones.”
Brown, who was also a highly successful entrepreneur, served as Kentucky governor from 1979 to 1983.
The Brown family released the following statement on his death:
Our Dad, John Y. Brown Jr., not only dreamed the impossible dream, he lived it until the very end. His positive attitude and zest for life was unrivaled and allowed him to beat the odds many times over. Every day was an exciting adventure for him. He was a true Kentucky original who beamed with pride for his home state and its people. He had many prominent accomplishments, but most of all he loved his family with all of his heart, and we in turn loved him with all of our hearts. We are heartbroken by his passing, but find comfort in what he wrote in one of his final days, “I have never been so happy.
Beshear has directed flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff in Brown’s honor until sunset on the day of interment. The former governor will lie in state in the rotunda of the Kentucky State Capitol.
Additional arrangements will be forthcoming.
(Photo courtesy of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
