Jefferson City - Missouri Department of Insurance Director John M. Huff issued the following statement regarding the recent death of former Missouri Department of Insurance Director C. Donald Ainsworth.

"I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my colleague and friend Don Ainsworth," Huff said. "Don was a tremendous mentor to me when I was first appointed director of the department. His knowledge and wisdom passed on to me was invaluable. He was a true gentleman, who was always committed to doing what's right to advance fair, efficient and effective regulation of insurance and the protection of Missouri consumers. I want to express my sincerest condolences, and prayers to his wife Marilyn and his family."

Governor Kit Bond appointed Ainsworth as director of the department in 1981. Prior to his service with the department, he owned Ainsworth Insurance Service, which merged with Alexander & Alexander in 1974. He served as managing vice president of A&A's St. Louis office until he retired in 1980. After leading the Department of Insurance, Ainsworth served as executive vice president, chief operating officer and vice president of governmental affairs with the Safety National Casualty Corporation. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Missouri Insurance Education Foundation and served on both the board of directors and advisory board for the organization.