Kentucky GOP leader, former gubernatorial candidate Larry Forgy dies

Former Kentucky gubernatorial candidate and Republican political figure Larry Forgy died early Thursday morning at the age of 82.

Forgy unsuccessfully ran for governor three times and lost in 1995 to Democrat Paul Patton.

The Lexington attorney served as chair of former President Ronald Reagan’s Kentucky campaigns and served as a Republican National Committee member.

His sister, Alice Forgy Kerr, said in a statement: “We are all heartbroken to lose this wonderful man who had a profound impact in Kentucky, but we are comforted to know that he is now in the embrace of our Heavenly Father.”

State Auditor and 2023 Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Harmon said, “I’m saddened to learn of the passing of Larry Forgy. His passion was for the betterment of our Commonwealth, and he dedicated much of his life in advocating for Kentucky. Lynn and I offer our prayers to his family.”