"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 Kennedy family said in a statement. "He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it."
Kennedy did not attend his sister, Eunice Shriver's public funeral, who died two weeks ago, although he did attend a private gathering. His absence from the public services fueled speculation about his deteriorating health.
Recently Kennedy urged the Massachusetts state legislature to change the law , which would allow an interim Senator to take his place instead of holding an election to replace him as is the current law in place in Massachusetts, something different media outlets reported on at the time.
Sympathies to the family and RIP ted Kennedy.
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