Former state Sen. Teel Bivins dies

AMARILLO, Texas (AP) - Teel Bivins, a former state lawmaker and U.S. ambassador to Sweden, has died. He was 61.

Family spokeswoman Sharon Miner said Bivins died at his home in Amarillo on Monday afternoon. She said he had been battling a long illness.

"Laura and I mourn the passing of Teel Bivins," said President George W. Bush. "He was a dear friend and a great man. Those of us fortunate enough to know Teel will miss him greatly. We send our prayers and condolences to Teel’s family and friends during this difficult time."

Gov. Rick Perry also issued a statement regarding the former Senator.

“Texas lost a principled leader today, a man whose willingness to tackle the toughest issues helped set our state on its current course,” Gov. Perry said. “I consistently credit the courage our state’s elected leaders showed in tackling a $10 billion budget deficit in 2003 as an essential building block of our current economic strength. As presiding chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Teel Bivins refereed a debate that literally changed the course of our state for the better. Texas educators can also thank him for his tireless advocacy for teacher pay raises. His unique combination of strength, grace and unselfish public service will be missed. Anita and I are praying for his family as they go through this tough time.”

The Amarillo Republican served in the Texas Senate for 15 years before President George W. Bush appointed Bivins to be the U.S. ambassador to Sweden in 2004. He stepped down for health reasons in early 2006.

Funeral arrangements are pending.