Today, former First Lady Nancy Reagan died of congestive heart failure at age ninety-four. From 1981-1989, her tenure as wife of Ronald Reagan, one of the nation’s most respected Presidents, was one of quiet strength, emotional toughness, and support. Through her determination to serve him, her encouragement and influence on the President were monumental. She never sought self-aggrandizement.
Forceful behind the scenes, she was brilliant, charming, and an advisor of last resort. Comforting him during the stressful period of world conflict, attempted assassination, and at last the dreaded Alzheimers that stole his cognizance, she was always there for the President, shielding him from unnecessary criticisms and pressures that only a world leader can know. She brought confidence and peace of mind to a leader under constant stress of global threat.
A news commentator who knew her said she brought class to the office and restored respect for the White House. She added, “She was the most influential First Lady America has ever had.” A modern day Power Woman.
P.D. Sargent, Ed.D., author of Power Women: Lessons From the Ancient World