Bill McBride, the Florida Democrat who defeated Janet Reno for the party's gubernatorial nomination in 2002 but lost to Republican Gov. Jeb Bush, has died at the age of 67.

A memorial service to honor him will be held at the Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church Friday, December 28 at 1 p.m.

The family will receive friends in the courtyard of the church at the conclusion of the memorial service. Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church is located at 3501 W. San Jose Street, in Tampa, Florida.

His wife, Alex Sink, said Sunday that McBride suffered a fatal heart attack Saturday while visiting with family in Mount Airy, N.C. Sink was the Democratic nominee for governor in 2010, losing to now-Gov. Rick Scott.

The couple lived in a home on 30 acres overlooking Lake Thonotosassa near Tampa.

Sink said McBride, an attorney who cut an imposing figure at 6-foot-3 and well over 200 pounds, had long suffered from heart problems.

Former Governor Charlie Crist said he got the honor of speaking to his friend one last time just over a week ago when McBride called to congratulate him for joining the Democratic Party. Crist said McBride sounded as energetic as ever.

“I think it was very unexpected. He had some heart condition issues, but he sounded so robust when I spoke to him on the phone,” Crist said. “Happy, upbeat. Maybe that's not a bad way to go out. We're sad about it, but we should celebrate his life, and I know he's in a better place now.”

His friends say McBride lived a life full of success and happiness with a passion for his wife and kids and public service.

“You name it if there was a major issue, he was standing up and often leading including when he campaigned to be our governor,” said Jim Davis, a friend.

“No matter what the topic is, Bill McBride was a giant, and will be sorely missed. So friendly, big-hearted man,” Crist said.

According to the Tampa Bay Times, family friend Patrick Manteiga said McBride was found unconscious after he had excused himself from a game of cards. Bob Bolt,

McBride's law partner and a close friend, told the Times McBride played competitive handball as recently as last week.

McBride loved sports and anything involving his alma mater, the University of Florida. He played at the Harbour Island Athletic Club & Spa, where, in 2003, he collapsed while working out on a treadmill.

He underwent an angioplasty, in which doctors inserted a stent in a closed coronary artery to restore blood flow.

In 2002, McBride defeated Reno, who was U.S. attorney general under President Bill Clinton, in the Democratic primary to run against Bush. Before entering politics, he was managing partner at the prestigious Holland & Knight law firm.

Details on services have not been announced.

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.

Reaction pours in

Friends and colleagues of Bill McBride have been reacting to his death this past weekend. Here are excepts from some of the statements issued:

U.S. Rep Kathy Castor:

“Bill McBride was a leader whose devotion, intelligence and commitment to service knew no bounds. Everyone in the Tampa Bay area loves Bill McBride and his wife, Alex Sink, because they have served as shining examples of selflessness and moral courage. Bill McBride was a force for good in our community and a strong advocate for public education and civic rights."

Gov. Rick Scott:

Governor Rick Scott issued the following statement:

"Bill McBride was a great lawyer, a devoted public servant, a veteran and a talented leader. Our family's thoughts and prayers are with the McBride family, and especially his wife Alex, at this time of great loss. Florida is no doubt a better place because people like Bill McBride commit themselves to making a difference in the lives of others."

U.S. Bill Nelson

“Bill McBride was larger than life.  He was one of the great business, legal and political leaders of Florida, and he is a friend that many of us will miss.”

Hillsborough Democratic Party:

"Bill's many contributions to the nation, the state, and the local community set an example that few can ever hope to emulate," says Chris Mitchell, Chair of the Hillsborough County Democratic Party.

"Whether Bill was serving as part of a Marine Corps operation, guiding his law firm to success, running for governor, or acting in the role of a local Democratic precinct committeeman, he always understood that he was part of something bigger than himself. Bill had a way of leading that drew others in and caused them to feel that they, too, were irreplaceable parts of an important effort."  

Steven Sonberg, managing partner of Holland & Knight Law Firm:

"He will be forever remembered as the consummate Holland & Knight lawyer. Bill provided dynamic leadership and gave his all in everything he did, whether guiding troops in Vietnam or managing Holland & Knight as it became a national law firm. ... Bill believed strongly that all lawyers have an obligation to help those in need, especially those who cannot afford access to the legal system."

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