Sen. Ted Kennedy of Massachusetts died Tuesday August 25^th, 2009 in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts. Known as “The Lion of the Senate,” Kennedy was an advocate of Civil Rights throughout his 47 years in the Senate, campaigning for the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Kennedy was an idealist who worked tirelessly to make this world a better place. He will be sorely missed by many Americans.

The Kennedy family has overcome numerous family tragedies, including the deaths of his oldest brother Joe Jr. in WWII, his sister Kathleen in the 1940’s, John and Robert in the 1960’s, and the recent deaths of David in 1984 and John Jr, Carolyn and sister-in-law Lauren Bessette in 1999.

Kennedy Family Statement- “Edward M. Kennedy – the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle we loved so deeply – died late Tuesday night at home in Hyannis Port. We’ve lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever. We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all. He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it’s hard to imagine any of them without him.”

President Barack Obama- “Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy. For five decades, virtually every major piece of legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts. I valued his wise counsel in the Senate, where, regardless of the swirl of events, he always had time for a new colleague. I cherished his confidence and momentous support in my race for the Presidency. And even as he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I’ve profited as President from his encouragement and wisdom.”

“An important chapter in our history has come to an end. Our country has lost a great leader, who picked up the torch of his fallen brothers and became the greatest United States Senator of our time.”

Newt Gingrich – “Senator Kennedy devoted his entire life to public policy.  At any point he could have accepted a life of leisure. Instead he carried on his family’s commitment to public service. The Senate will be a smaller and sadder place without his enthusiasm, his energy, and his persistent courage.”

Sarah Palin- “I would like to extend our sympathies to the Kennedy family as we hear word about the passing of Senator Ted Kennedy. He believed in our country and fought passionately for his convictions.”

Sen. Harry Reid- “The Kennedy family and the Senate family have together lost our patriarch.  My thoughts, and those of the entire United States Senate, are with Vicki, Senator Kennedy’s children, his many nieces and nephews, and his entire family.  It was the thrill of my lifetime to work with Ted Kennedy.  He was a friend, the model of public service and an American icon. As we mourn his loss, we rededicate ourselves to the causes for which he so dutifully dedicated his life.  Senator Kennedy’s legacy stands with the greatest, the most devoted, the most patriotic men and women to ever serve in these halls. Because of Ted Kennedy, more young children could afford to become healthy.  More young adults could afford to become students.  More of our oldest citizens and our poorest citizens could get the care they need to live longer, fuller lives.  More minorities, women and immigrants could realize the rights our founding documents promised them.  And more Americans could be proud of their country.”

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