It is with sadness that we report the death of Keith Crisco, the man who was Clay Aiken’s opponent in the Democratic primary for North Carolina’s Second Congressional District seat.

According to CBS – Charlotte, Crisco died today at his home from injuries sustained in a fall.

Crisco was married to his wife, Jane, for 49 years. They had three children and six grandchildren.

Crisco also taught Sunday school at First United Methodist Church in Asheboro.

Crisco served as North Carolina Department of Commerce secretary from 2009 to 2012 under Governor Beverly Perdue.

In his statement to the press, Clay said:

Monday, May 12, 2014

I am stunned and deeply saddened by Keith Crisco’s death. Keith came from humble beginnings. No matter how high he rose – to Harvard, to the White House and to the Governor’s Cabinet – he never forgot where he came from.

He was a gentleman, a good and honorable man and an extraordinary public servant. I was honored to know him.

I am suspending all campaign activities as we pray for his family and friends.

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