The Star-Telegram reports this morning that the 77-year-old Russell, father of State Senator Wendy Davis, died from complications from abdominal surgery at Harris Methodist Hospital.

Early Thursday morning, Davis, who had postponed her plans to announce whether she would be running for Texas governor in 2014, posted on her Facebook page that Russell died peacefully in the early hours of the morning.

“He was surrounded by his children and his wife, our stepmom, Suzi [McLaughlin]. During his time in the hospital, there was never a moment that one of us wasn’t by his side. We, and the community, will forever be grateful for the significant impact he made on our lives. He and his warm, sparkling brown eyes will be deeply missed. My family and I thank you for surrounding us with your prayers and comfort during this time.”

Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

Read more here: http://www.star-telegram.com/2013/09/05/5135534/jerry-russell-stage-west-founder.html#storylink=cpy