FLORENCE, Ky. (AP) - A self-made northern Kentucky millionaire who was a supporter of the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra has died at the age of 88.

R.C. Durr of Boone County died Monday.

He was a horseman, contractor, developer and was known for his down-to-earth kindness and philanthropy. His death came one week after his 88th birthday.

Durr started as a highway contractor through his R.C. Durr Company in the 1940s. His first highway contract was Frogtown Road in Boone County. As his company flourished, it took on bigger and bigger projects, including that for the Eastern Kentucky Parkway in 1961.

He later branched into banking, helping to found Boone State Bank, subsequently acquired by Fifth Third, and the Bank of Boone County.

His interest in thoroughbreds earned him an appointment to the Kentucky Racing Commission.

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