The antigay American Family Association just lost its longtime figurehead after Donald Wildmon stepped down this week as chairman of the board.

Wildmon is in ill health, suffering from the encephalitis virus caused by a mosquito bite as well as eye cancer. "From August to November of last year Wildmon spent 121 days in the
hospital and rehab. In addition to the St. Louis encephalitis, he
underwent surgery for cancer on his left eye," according to an AFA press release.

Wildmon, a retired Methodist minister, founded the AFA in 1977. The organization now has 175 employees and operates 180 radio stations. The AFA's agenda includes opposition to abortion and gay rights. Wildmon's son Tim is expected to take over as leader of the organization.