Former Gov. Tony Earl has died, Gov. Evers announced on Thursday.
Earl, 86, served as governor from 1983 to 1987. He had recently suffered a stroke.
In a statement, Gov. Evers called Earl a ‘formidable leader and public servant’ as well as a ‘mentor and friend.’
Gov. Evers ordered flags to fly at half-staff in honor of Earl, effective immediately,
Earl was known as a champion of gay rights and a staunch environmentalist.
He was survived by 4 daughters and 11 grandchildren.