You had it right the first time, John

Via Think Progress:

McCain ‘first out of the gate with Falwell condolences.’ Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), who once called Rev. Jerry Falwell an “agent of intolerance,” was the first major presidential candidate to issue a statement of condolence following Falwell’s death. “Dr. Falwell was a man of distinguished accomplishment who devoted his life to serving his faith and country.”