Former Gov. Scranton Passes Away

Former Pennsylvania Governor William Scranton died Sunday of a brain hemorrhage.

He was 96.

Scranton served as from 1963 to 1967 implemented major reforms in the state’s educational system. The state community college system, the state board of education, and the state’s Higher Education Assistance Agency were all created during his term.

Governor Tom Corbett today ordered all Pennsylvania flags lowered to half-staff immediately in honor of Scranton.

“Governor Scranton was a world-class leader in government. He will be remembered as a man of humility, honesty, dignity and integrity,’’ Corbett said.

“Susan and I mourn the passing of this distinguished man and offer our sincerest condolences to his wife, Mary, and his family. We will always be grateful for Governor Scranton’s service and the legacy he left our great commonwealth,’’ Corbett said.

Flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of his funeral. Service arrangements for the former governor are pending. All Pennsylvanians are invited to join in this tribute.

Senators Pat Toomey and Bob Casey released the following statements:

“Kris and I send our prayers to the family of former Governor Bill Scranton," Toomey said. "From the time he left Yale Law School to enlist in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, to his service as Ambassador to the United Nations, his was a life dedicated to the service of our great commonwealth and our country.”

“Today we pause to remember the life of an extraordinary public servant, Governor William W. Scranton. Governor Scranton served his home area, our Commonwealth and our country with distinction and with honor," Casey said. "As a Congressman and as Governor, he prioritized education, economic development and job creation. When he left office after four years as Governor, Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate was one of the lowest ever. Long after he left public office, he continued to devote his considerable skills and energy to helping and promoting Northeastern Pennsylvania and serving the nation in significant appointments that focused on difficult domestic and international issues, including service as UN Ambassador. On behalf of my wife Terese, my mother and the entire Casey family, I extend condolences to Mrs. Scranton, Lieutenant Governor Scranton, Susan, Peter and Joseph.

The news leader of the Twin Tiers ... since 1947