Pam Bondi: Al Austin's Tireless Efforts 'Will Long Be Remembered'

Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi issued the following statement on Thursday regarding the death ofprominent GOP fundraiser and civic leader Al Austin:

I am deeply saddened to learn of Al Austins passing. His tireless efforts on behalf of our country, our community, in pursuit of educational excellence and the Republican Party will long be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with Beverly, his family, and those of us who were mentored by his leadership, humbled by his patriotism, and inspired by his philanthropic endeavors.

Austin was attributed with bringing new business to the Tampa Bay area and is widely credited for helping bring the 2012 Republican National Convention to Tampa.

Austin died of a heart attack in his sleep Wednesday evening. He was 85.