Colin Powell, the first Black US secretary of state and top military officer, died on Monday at the age of 84 due to complications from COVID-19. He was fully vaccinated, his family said in a statement on Facebook.
Reactions to his passing have been flowing in:
“The world lost one of the greatest leaders that we have ever witnessed. Alma lost a great husband, and the family lost a tremendous father and I lost a tremendous personal friend and mentor. He has been my mentor for a number of years. He always made time for me and I could always go to him with tough issues. He always had great counsel.
“First African American chairman of the joint chiefs, first African American secretary of state, a man who was respected around the globe … quite frankly, it is not possible to replace a Colin Powell. We will miss him,” said US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin.
“Today, the nation lost a man of undaunted courage and a champion of character. A statesman & trailblazer, devoted to America and the cause of liberty, Colin Powell’s legacy of service & honor will long inspire. Ann & I offer our love & sincere condolences to Alma and his family,” US Senator Mitt Romney on Twitter.
“Colin was a towering figure in American military and political leadership over many years, someone of immense capability and integrity, a hugely likable and warm personality and a great companion, with a lovely and self-deprecating sense of humor.
He was wonderful to work with, he inspired loyalty and respect and was one of those leaders who always treated those under them with kindness and concern. His life stands as a testament not only to dedicated public service but also a strong belief in willingness to work across partisan division in the interests of his country.
I am so sorry to hear the news of his death. He still hadso much to give. My thoughts and prayers are with Alma and all his large and loving extended family,” former British PM Tony Blair says.
“Laura and I are deeply saddened by the death of Colin Powell. He was a great public servant, starting with his time as a soldier during Vietnam. Many presidents relied on GeneralPowell’s counsel and experience.
He was such a favorite of Presidents that he earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom – twice. He was highly respected at home and abroad. And most important, Colin was a family man and a friend. Laura and I send Alma and their children our sincere condolences as they remember the life of a great man,” says former President George W. Bush in a statement.
“He was decent and honest with people. Integrity was always at the forefront, this was a guy who truly walked the walk; he lived the words that he spoke, always optimistic,” says Civils Rights Activist Al Sharpton on Twitter.
