Senator Ted Kennedy’s battle year long battle with brain cancer ended early this morning, he was 77.
His family announced his death in a brief statement released early Wednesday. "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," the statement said. "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."
I obviously disagreed with much of his politics, but I wanted to take note of his life. He worked with 10 presidents in his 47 years in the Senate. He was behind many bipartisan efforts/deals within the Senate. While he was certainly liberal, he wasn’t overly partisan. He had many friends on both sides of the aisle.
He was a philanthropist as Cal Thomas noted on Fox News this morning by giving of his personal fortune with numerous inner-city efforts, and also gave his time – all without press releases and without seeking attention for himself. I personally know that he was incredibly helpful with some ministry friends of mine out in Boston and cared about their work with juvenile offenders.
As I prayed for him when I learned of his brain cancer; I do pray for his family who have suffered much and experience again another loss.
Update: Check out Joe Carter’s post on Senator Kennedy.