Former Pitchman for Winston Cigarettes Dies of Throat Cancer

While some of his celebrity came from appearing in ads, still more came from his legal battles with R.J. Reynolds and other tobacco companies. Landers, born Allan Levine, claim that being forced to smoke for the ads caused his health problems. His case was scheduled for trial in April.

Alan Landers had already survived two bouts of lung cancer, and was undergoing chemotherapy and radiation for the aforementioned throat cancer. As if that wasn't enough, he also suffered from emphysema.

Smoking has been linked as a possible cause in all of these diseases.

However, his case may die with him. Under Florida law only a parent, child or spouse of the deceased can continue a case after a death. Alan Landers's parents are both dead, and he is unmarried and childless.

Tim Howard, Landers' attorney said:

"He fought a good fight. Alan was an example of light, energy and courage. It's a tribute to his spirit that he beat the odds so many times."

You can find more information on Alan Landers at the website WinstonMan.com.

Howard added:

"He wanted his justice. He wanted his day in court. And that's the challenge with all these cigarette cases. ... When the courts drag out justice, the individuals die."