Friday morning, Gov. Kay Ivey announced the passing of former U.S. Rep. Sonny Callahan (R-Mobile), who served 10 terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Prior to serving in Congress, Callahan was a member of the Alabama Legislature, eight years in the House and six years in the Senate.

“It is with genuine sadness that I share the passing of longtime Congressman H.L. ‘Sonny’ Callahan of Mobile,” Ivey said in a statement.

“Congressman Callahan passed away peacefully in his sleep last night,” she continued. “Without question, Sonny’s service to Alabama and to America was unrivaled. He was one of South Alabama’s most beloved public servants, and his legacy of helping others stands out as just one of his many wonderful qualities.”

Ivey also announced she was ordering flags lowered.

“Our state and nation have lost a giant of a man. My thoughts and prayers are extended to Sonny’s family, friends and longtime staffers,” she said. “As such, I am directing the flags at the Alabama Capitol Complex and the flags in AL-1 immediately be lowered until the day of his interment.”

@Jeff_Poor is a graduate of Auburn University and the University of South Alabama, the editor of Breitbart TV, a columnist for Mobile’s Lagniappe Weekly, and host of Mobile’s “The Jeff Poor Show” from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on FM Talk 106.5.