TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ordered flags to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Wednesday, Jan. 15 at all local and state buildings, installations and grounds throughout the state.

The governor issued the proclamation Wednesday, Jan. 8 in honor of Former Governor Kenneth Hood “Buddy” MacKay, Jr., who died at the age of 91 last month.

“Former Governor MacKay exemplified dedication to public service and improving the State of Florida,” DeSantis said. “As a mark of respect for former Governor MacKay, I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff.”

MacKay’s over 30-year public service career began in 1968 when he was elected to the Florida House of Representatives. He then served three terms in the Florida Senate and three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.

He became the state’s 14th Lieutenant Governor in 1990, serving two terms alongside Lawton Chiles. MacKay stepped in as the state’s 42nd governor in December 1998 after Chiles died suddenly of a heart attack just three weeks before he was set to leave office.

According to the Florida Department of State, MacKay filled the role from Dec. 12, 1998, to Jan. 5, 1999.

DeSantis said MacKay, who was also an Air Force veteran, died surrounded by his family.