Carl Sanders, Georgia’s governor from 1963 to 1967 has died, according to the Governor’s office. He was 89.

Sanders was the first so-called “new South” governor whose moderate policies in a time of racial unrest attracted very favorable national attention.

Channel 2’s John Pruitt described Sanders as intelligent, poised and innovative. His administration, while not without controversy, was considered a major stride forward for Georgia. He was succeeded by Lester Maddox.

Sanders was born in Augusta on May 15, 1925. He attended the University of Georgia and played on the football team.