JACKSON, Miss.–Former Gov. Bill Allain was being remembered for his service to the state by family and others Tuesday. His family released this statement:
Today we mourn the passing of our beloved brother and uncle Bill Allain. Bill loved the State of Mississippi and spent his life as public servant defending and representing the people of Mississippi as Assistant Attorney General and later as Attorney General. He represented the consumers of Mississippi and advocated for the average Mississippian.
As Governor he continued to represent all Mississippians and his administration was inclusive of all people: black and white, male and female, Catholic and Protestant, rich and poor. He never forgot his upbringing and his strong Catholic faith. He was able to forge a coalition in the Legislature to work for the common good and in victory or defeat he was able to forgive and be tolerant of those with differing points of view. We as his family thank the people of Mississippi for choosing him as Attorney General in 1979 and for electing him Governor in 1983. Bill always served with honor, integrity and distinction. His Catholic faith and servant hood was the driving force in his life and career.
Arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced when available. Sebrell Funeral Home in Ridgeland, Mississippi is in charge of arrangements.
Reaction also from Gov. Bryant:
Deborah and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Gov. Allain, and we are praying for his family and friends. We appreciate his many years of service to this state and are also grateful for his service in the United States Army.
Mississippi GOP Chairman Joe Nosef released this:
I was fortunate to get to know Governor Allain as one of my professors in law school. During the last twenty years we kept in touch, and he was nice enough to take time to provide counsel on issues of mutual importance. His public service to the state of Mississippi and the country should be appreciated by all.
Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann also had some words:
We mourn the loss of Bill Allain, a veteran, Attorney General, Governor and a strict constitutionalist.
Allain’s family asks that instead of flowers, donations be made to Stewpot or the Salvation Army in Jackson and to St. Mary’s Catholic Basilica in Natchez.
