Former Justice McAnulty Dies of Lung Cancer

[Christine]

Former Kentucky Supreme Court Justice William McAnulty died Thursday night after fighting lung cancer that had spread to his brain.

McAnulty, 59, was the first African-American to serve on Kentucky's Supreme Court, representing Jefferson County. Gov. Ernie Fletcher appointed McAnulty to fill a vacancy created when Justice Martin Johnstone retired in June 2006, and then he was elected to the high court the following November. McAnulty resigned his position earlier this month, and during his 30-plus year career, had served at every level of the state court system.

Louisville Metro Mayor Jerry Abramson on Friday ordered flags to be flown at half-staff on all Louisville Metro government buildings and properties to honor McAnulty.

"Those who knew Justice McAnulty will remember him as a razor-sharp wit with a passion for public service," Abramson said in a news release. "We have lost a man devoted to the pursuit of justice, and we have lost a good friend."

[Laura Ann]

Here is an article that was in the local paper when the judge was first diagnosed. I was surprised to read that he was having brain surgery. I have to wonder if it was really necessary......

Kentucky Supreme Court Justice McAnulty Recovering Following Surgery

Brain Surgery performed July 11, 2007 at Jewish Hospital

Louisville, KY (July 12, 2007)…Kentucky Supreme Court Justice William E. McAnulty, Jr., underwent brain surgery at Jewish Hospital on Wednesday, July 11. The 59 year-old Justice was diagnosed with lung cancer a little more than two weeks ago, which had also spread to the brain.The surgery, which lasted a little more than one hour, was performed by neurosurgeon Wayne G. Villanueva, M.D. “A ‘gross total resection’ was performed on Justice McAnulty to remove a lesion from the base of the cranium,” said Villanueva. “It was metastasis to the brain from the lung cancer. He came through the surgery extremely well. We moved him to our intensive care unit following surgery, which is normal for this type of procedure. We plan to move him to a regular patient room today.”Following recovery from his July 11 surgery, medical oncologist Jeffrey Hargis will be coordinating planned chemotherapy and radiation therapy. “The next phase of his treatment should be starting later this month,” said Hargis.His wife Kristie said, “We appreciate the kind thoughts and prayers from everyone and are especially thankful for all the support we have received from family and friends. We also want to thank all the wonderful doctors and nurses involved for the great care he is receiving at Jewish Hospital.” McAnulty has four children, two grown children from a previous marriage and two younger children, ages four and 12. The McAnulty family will not be providing media interviews at this time.