Remembering Nancy Reagan

Politicians mourned the death of former first lady Nancy Reagan, who died in her home in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The wife of former President Ronald Reagan was remembered for her loyalty to her husband. She became fiercely protective of him after a 1981 assassination attempt, and later stood by him as Alzheimer's disease overtook him in his last years.

Reagan, who died of heart failure, will be buried next to her late husband at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California.

"Nancy Reagan was totally devoted to President Reagan, and we take comfort that they will be reunited once more," former first lady Barbara Bush said in a statement. "George and I send our prayers and condolences to her family."

"Laura and I are saddened by the loss of former First Lady Nancy Reagan," President George W. Bush said in a statement. "Mrs. Reagan was fiercely loyal to her beloved husband, and that devotion was matched only by her devotion to our country."

"Her influence on the White House was complete and lasting," Bush said. "During her time as First Lady and since, she raised awareness about drug abuse and breast cancer. When we moved into the White House, we benefitted from her work to make those historic rooms beautiful. Laura and I are grateful for the life of Nancy Reagan, and we send our condolences to the entire Reagan family."

Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus said: "Nancy Reagan embodied what it means to represent America as First Lady and her dignified and warm demeanor inspired America."

Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y, said in a statement: “You didn't have to be a Reagan Republican to admire and respect Nancy Reagan. She was a tower of strength alongside her husband, had strong beliefs, and was not afraid to chart her own course politically. She persuaded her husband to support the [gun control] Brady Law, and their advocacy was instrumental in helping us pass it.”

With the passing of Nancy Reagan, we say a final goodbye to the days of Ronald Reagan. With charm, grace, and a passion...

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