Voices and Reactions

“Even in the face of impossible tragedy, she carried the grief of her family and our entire nation with a calm power that somehow reassured all of us who mourned. We hope that Mrs. Onassis’ children, John and Caroline, and her grandchildren find solace in the extraordinary contributions she made to our country.’

--excerpt from President Clinton’s comments

*

“In times of hope, she captured our hearts. In tragedy, her courage helped salve a nation’s grief. She was an image of beauty and romance and leaves an empty place in the world as I have known it.’

--former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson

*

“Few women throughout history have touched the hearts and shaped the dreams of Americans more profoundly than Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Nancy and I have always admired this remarkable woman, not only for her grace and dignity, but also for her tremendous courage.’

--former President Ronald Reagan

*

“Jackie was part of our family and part of our hearts for 40 wonderful and unforgettable years, and she will never really leave us. Our love and prayers are with John, and with Caroline and Ed and their three children.’

--Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, through a spokeswoman

*

“Jackie Onassis brought great dignity and grace to the White House and was, indeed, a charming and wonderful First Lady. (Barbara and I) join her many friends and admirers around the world in mourning her loss.’

--former President George Bush

*

“I think we all just wish her a great deal of love. There’s a lot of love in her room and in her apartment.’

--Rep. Joseph Kennedy after visiting his aunt

*

“The disease progressed to a point where there was no more they could do. They reached a point whereby she could either remain in the hospital or go home. She chose to go home.’

--Nancy Tuckerman, Mrs. Onassis’ spokeswoman

*

Her ‘grace and courage enriched our national life and our culture. It was a privilege to see her in action. Our sympathy goes out to the entire family.’

--Sen. Paul Simon

*

“I just wanted to be here. It’s not curiosity. It’s almost like paying respects.’

--Lillian Feidel of Aventura, Fla., who stopped and asked about Mrs. Onassis

*

“Bad luck seemed to trail her, but you have to admire her strength. I just wanted to be here. I will remember her as a strong woman, elegant and profound.’

--Marina Faini, a Chilean immigrant outside the former First Lady’s apartment

*

“I do not think it entirely inappropriate for me to introduce myself. I am the man who accompanied Jacqueline Kennedy to Paris--and I have enjoyed it.’

--President John F. Kennedy on a trip to France in 1961