IN MEMORIAM: Former First Lady Nancy Reagan Dies At 94

Nancy Reagan, wife of former President Ronald Reagan, died on Sunday. She was 94.

 

The cause of death was congestive heart failure, according to her rep Joanne Drake, a spokeswoman with the Reagan Library.

 

“Mrs. Reagan will be buried at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, next to her husband, Ronald Wilson Reagan, who died on June 5, 2004,” Drake wrote in a statement.

“Prior to the funeral service, there will be an opportunity for members of the public to pay their respects at the Library.”

 

“We remain grateful for Nancy Reagan’s life, thankful for her guidance, and prayerful that she and her beloved husband are together again,” President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama said in a statement.

 

New York officials also reacted to news of Nancy Reagan’s passing.

 

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio: “New Yorkers are deeply saddened by the passing of First Lady Nancy Reagan, a warm and intelligent woman who loved this country and President Reagan with compassion and grace. She is missed throughout the five boroughs today, particularly in Flushing, Queens where she was born. First Lady Reagan utilized her position and convictions to advocate on behalf of children, veterans, seniors, those with Alzheimer’s disease and mental and emotional health disorders — and today we carry forth Nancy’s torch to remember and thank her for dedicating her life to the American people. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and loved ones.”

 

NY Governor Andrew Cuomo: “Saddened to hear of the passing of Nancy Reagan, an elegant woman and wonderful First Lady who served the nation well. She will be missed.”

 

On Twitter, City Comptroller Scott Stringer noted: “Saddened by the news of Nancy Reagan’s passing. Her legacy & service to our country will always be remembered.”

 

Public Advocate Letitia James tweeted: #NancyReagan was an influential and caring First Lady who had a lasting impact on this country. My thoughts with the Reagan family.”

 

NYS Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan: “We are eternally grateful for her many contributions, and for the role she played in supporting both the man and his Presidency.  Together, the Reagans made our country great and, even more importantly, inspired a generation of Americans to feel good about themselves once again.

In many ways, she was a woman ahead of her time, including her work to highlight the dangers of illegal drugs and encourage young people to “Just Say No.” 

Mrs. Reagan will be sorely missed but I know she is home again with her beloved Ronnie.  A free and prosperous nation is forever in their debt.”

Bronx Assemblyman Michael Blake: “Former First Lady Reagan‘s 94 years of life have created a sense of distinction and service that will be remembered admirably.  She now gets to hold hands in Heaven again with her love. May God watch over her, provide comfort to her family and bless her as she now walks among the angels.” 

 

This post has been updated to include condolences issued by Governor Andrew Cuomo, Comptroller Scott Stringer and Public Advocate Letitia James.

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