Tuesday, Jan. 06, 2009

Flags at half-staff to honor Bell

The flags on all Georgia state buildings will be flown at half-staff in memory of former U.S. Attorney General and Atlanta lawyer Griffin Bell.

The move, effective Wednesday through Bell's funeral, was ordered by Gov. Sonny Perdue.

Bell, an Americus, Ga., native, died Monday at the age of 90.

“As a respected counselor to political leaders on both sides of the political spectrum, Griffin Bell’s impact on our state and nation spanned multiple generations,” Perdue said in a news release. “He had a unique ability to explain complex legal matters plainly and to bring people together over even the most contentious of issues. On a personal note, I am grateful for the counsel he provided to me during my time as Governor. He and I shared a love of the outdoors especially bird hunting, and he was one of the best shots I knew even to the end. The people of Georgia celebrate the life of this extraordinary man, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”