Politicians and state officials have issued statements in remembrance of former U.S. Attorney General and Pennsylvania Governor Dick Thornburgh.

He died Thursday morning at a long term care facility outside Pittsburgh. He was 88.  

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf has ordered U.S. and Commonwealth flags on the Capitol Complex, at all Commonwealth facilities, and all public buildings and grounds throughout the commonwealth to fly at half-staff to honor Governor Dick Thornburgh. Gov. Wolf also issued the following statement:

“Frances and I extend our deepest condolences to the Thornburgh family. Governor Dick Thornburgh was an unequaled public servant who devoted his life to caring for the people of our commonwealth and our nation. Governor Thornburgh served two terms as governor of Pennsylvania, and calm, grounded leadership was a hallmark of his governorship. He guided Pennsylvania through a tumultuous period in our commonwealth’s history following the partial meltdown at the Three Mile Island nuclear power station. His was a necessary and steady voice of calm in the midst of crisis. Governor Thornburgh also served in the United States Justice Department under five presidents, including three years as United States Attorney General. During his tenure, the office of the Attorney General used its power to advocate for the needs of vulnerable Americans and led the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Governor Thornburgh dedicated his life to public service, and his contributions to our commonwealth and our nation will not be forgotten. All of Pennsylvania mourns the loss of one of our great public servants.”

Former Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge issued the following statement via Twitter Thursday afternoon: 

"Dick Thornburgh led a life worth celebrating. His public service was a model of integrity and character that anyone seeking office would be wise to follow. A remarkable public servant and an even better man. Michele and I send condolences to Ginny and the Thornburgh family."

Gov. Ridge on Friday also recorded a pair of tribute videos honoring the life and legacy of Gov. Thornburgh. 

Former Pennsylvania Governor Mark Schweiker, who served as governor from Oct. 5, 2001 to Jan. 21, 2003, released the following statement in remembrance of Gov. Thornburgh: 

“Gov. Thornburgh was a personal hero and a leader to emulate. His passion for public service and the people of his beloved Pennsylvania was still obvious long after he left office. In examining everything he did during the crisis at Three Mile Island, his leadership was thoughtful and strong at a time when the commonwealth needed it most. Kathy and I extend our prayers to Ginny and his entire family.” 

U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) released the following statement regarding the passing of Governor Dick Thornburgh:

“Governor Dick Thornburgh dedicated his professional life to public service. He led Pennsylvania and later, the Department of Justice successfully and with integrity. The steady nature in which he guided Pennsylvania through one of its most dangerous crises – the nuclear accident at Three Mile Island – should serve as an example for all elected officials. I extend my condolences to Governor Thornburgh’s wife, Ginny, and their entire family.”

State Treasurer-elect Stacy Garrity released the following statement on the passing of Dick Thornburgh:  
 
“Dick Thornburgh personified the spirit of service and principle that made him the perfect fit for so many positions of importance. As a crime-busting prosecutor, he ended the regimes of corrupt bosses. As governor, he showed a sure and steady hand during the crisis at Three Mile Island. As attorney general, he exemplified the best in law enforcement. As a man, he left behind a legacy of compassion and advocacy through his work in passing the Americans With Disabilities Act. Pennsylvania was blessed to have him, and further blessed that we have his example to follow.”