Donald McManus, who served as Broome County executive in the late 1970s, has died. McManus, who lived in Endicott, died Tuesday night. He was 79.

McManus was Broome's first Democratic county executive. He succeeded Republican Edwin Crawford in 1977.

Calling hours will be Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. at Allen Memorial Home at 511 East Main Street in Endicott.

A funeral mass is to be held Monday at 10 a.m. at Saint Anthony of Padua Church at 306 Odell Avenue in Endicott.

Barbara Fiala, another Democrat who later went on to become Broome County executive, said McManus was "someone you looked up to."

Fiala, who now is New York State Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, told WNBF News McManus was a "very strong Democrat who put his family first."

She recalled talking to McManus to discuss some of the challenges and issues she faced after she was elected to the county executive post.

Fiala also noted McManus had a "love for the community." She described him as a "great public servant."

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