Ronald Reagan, the Hollywood actor who became one of the most popular presidents of the 20th century and transformed the political landscape of an era with his vision of conservative government, died Saturday at his home in the Bel-Air neighborhood of Los Angeles. He was 93.
His wife, Nancy, was at his side. For 10 years, he suffered from Alzheimer's, an incapacitating brain disease. In 1994, he bade a poignant farewell to "my fellow Americans." In a hand-written letter, made public by his office, he said he was setting out on "the journey that will lead me into the sunset of my life."
In a statement relayed by chief of staff Joanne Drake, who represents the family, Nancy Reagan said: "My family and I would like the world to know that President Ronald Reagan has passed away. ... We appreciate everyone's prayers." Drake said Reagan's death came at 1 p.m. EDT and was caused by pneumonia, complicated by Alzheimer's.
