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Published December 26, 2014

James B. Edwards, South Carolina's first Republican governor since Reconstruction and later energy secretary for two years in the Reagan administration, has died. He was 87.

His son-in-law Ken Wingate confirmed that Edwards died Friday.

The oral surgeon served in the state Senate and helped build the modern Republican Party in South Carolina before becoming governor in 1974.

Edwards was limited to one term under state law at the time. After leaving the governor's mansion, he headed to Washington as President Ronald Reagan's energy secretary.

Edwards returned to his home state in 1982 to become president of the Medical University of South Carolina, a position he held for 17 years before retiring.

"Gov. Edwards made an incredible mark on South Carolina history," said GOP state Chairman Matt Moore. "His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched as governor, dentist and particularly as a man of faith."

Republican Gov. Nikki Haley said she's grateful for the support and encouragement Edwards gave her.

"Michael and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Gov. Edwards, whose love for South Carolina inspired him to serve until his last day," she said.

Entering the 1974 governor's race, Edwards was not sure of his chances facing well-known retired Gen. William Westmoreland, who commanded U.S. troops in Vietnam, in the GOP primary.

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Former SC Gov. Edwards dies at age 87