Justice McAnulty passes away. May his soul Rest In Peace.

Justice William E. McNaulty, Jr., "who was born to be a judge" and "who served nearly 30 years on the bench and made history as the first African American to sit on the Kentucky Supreme Court, died last night, only two weeks after a battle with cancer that forced him to step down. He was 59." May his soul Rest In Peace.

Update: Here is a press release from Gov. Fletcher's office:

GOVERNOR FLETCHER EXPRESSES SADNESS AT PASSING OF JUSTICE WILLIAM MCANULTY
Orders flags lowered to half-staff

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Governor Ernie Fletcher today expressed his sadness at the passing of Justice William E. McAnulty Jr. and has ordered flags at all state office buildings lowered to half-staff in his honor.

Governor Fletcher issued the following statement:

"I am truly saddened to learn of the passing of Justice William McAnulty. He was a great Kentuckian, and also a historic figure – the first African-American justice of the Kentucky Supreme Court. He distinguished himself throughout a long and exemplary career as a trial and appellate judge. During his recent illness, he continued to inspire all who knew him with his great courage and dignity. My and the First Lady’s prayers are with the McAnulty family."

Flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of Justice McAnulty’s funeral, which has not yet been determined.

Individuals, businesses, organizations and government agencies are encouraged to join in this tribute by lowering flags in honor of Justice McAnulty.

As soon as funeral arrangements are made, I will post them here.

Update #2: Go here for updates, or to leave comments.

Update: More on the Justice.