Gov. Rick Scott Credits Doyle Connor With Florida Agriculture Industry's Strength Today

Gov. Rick Scott issued a statement Sunday night, on the death of former Commissioner of Agriculture Doyle Conner. Conner, who held the position for 30 years, died earlier Sunday atCross Landing Nursing Home in Monticello. It was his 84th birthday.

Commissioner Conners service to Florida is a major reason why Floridas agricultural industry is one of the strongest in the country today, said Scott. Throughout his impressive career, Commissioner Conner served Floridas families and brought Florida agricultural issues to the forefront. He will be remembered as one of Floridas most hard-working, knowledgeable, and dedicated elected officials. Ann and I pray for his family during their time of mourning, and join all Floridians in mourning the passing of such an influential man."

Connor was a Democrat at a time when the Democrats controlled the state. He was the youngest speaker of the Florida House of Representatives when he was elected to the post in 1957 at the age of 28.

He served five terms in the House, then was elected agriculture commissioner just ahead of his 32nd birthday. He easily won re-election every term until his retirement in January 1991.