Upon the death of renown author, poet, actor, activists and educator, Maya Angelou on Wednesday, May 28, 2014, many of her famous friends and admirers had many positive things to say about her life and legacy. It was no different for President Barack Obama.
In an official statement released by the White House, Wednesday afternoon, the president writes, “Like so many others, Michelle and I will always cherish the time we were privileged to spend with Maya. With a kind word and a strong embrace, she had the ability to remind us that we are all God’s children; that we all have something to offer.”
“And while Maya’s day may be done,” he continued, “we take comfort in knowing that her song will continue, ‘flung up to heaven’ – and we celebrate the dawn that Maya Angelou helped bring.”
Former president Bill Clinton also released his own statement about Angelou’s death. He writes…
“With Maya Angelou’s passing, America has lost a national treasure; and Hillary and I, a beloved friend,” he said. “The poems and stories she wrote and read to us in her commanding voice were gifts of wisdom and wit, courage and grace.”
Angelou read an original poem at Clinton’s 1993 inauguration.
She will be missed.
Angelou was 86 when she passed.
