Reaction: Gerald Ford's Death

Comments on the death of former President Gerald R. Ford:

"My family joins me in sharing the difficult news that Gerald Ford, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather has passed away at 93 years of age. His life was filled with love of God, his family and his country."

-- Betty Ford, former first lady.

"President Ford was a great American who gave many years of dedicated service to our country. On Aug. 9, 1974, after a long career in the House of Representatives and service as vice president, he assumed the presidency in an hour of national turmoil and division. With his quiet integrity, common sense and kind instincts, President Ford helped heal our land and restore public confidence in the presidency."

-- President Bush.

"Ronnie and I always considered him a dear friend and close political ally. His accomplishments and devotion to our country are vast, and even long after he left the presidency he made it a point to speak out on issues important to us all."

-- Nancy Reagan, widow of former President Ronald Reagan.

"He had to bring our country back and make it whole again and he did it with dignity, he did it with great, great skill and sensitivity."

-- Alexander Haig, Ford's former chief-of-staff, on CNN.