EDMONTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — Former Kentucky Court of Appeals judge and gubernatorial candidate Tom Emberton died in a house fire on Thursday, according to Edmonton Mayor Doug Smith.

Emberton served as the chief judge for the Kentucky Court of Appeals from 1987 until his retirement in 2004. He was also the Republican nominee for the 1971 gubernatorial election.

Authorities said an officer patrolling the area saw flames at Emberton’s residence just before 5 a.m. Thursday and notified the Edmonton Fire Department. Emberton was able to get his wife out of the home but re-entered in an effort to save the structure.

“Tom heroically made certain his wife Julia made it to safety but lost his life during his effort to save their home,” said Edmonton Mayor Doug Smith. “He was a friend to many and always a champion of South Central Ky. His wisdom, kindness, and always sage advice was an encouragement to all.”

Emberton was 90 years old.