Revered as one of the greatest women in broadcasting history is being remembered for her love and kindness, Cokie Roberts died yesterday of complications from breast cancer at the age of 75.
The Emmy-winning journalist was first diagnosed in 2002 and recently said she was having health issues again. After her initial diagnosis, she spoke regularly about women getting regular mammograms. With her latest role was political commentator for ABC, the network president calls her "a true pioneer for women in journalism."
Named one of the 50 greatest women in the history of broadcasting by the American Women in Radio and Television, and the Library of Congress declared her a 'Living Legend' in 2008, making her one of the very few Americans so-honored. Cokie is survived by fellow journalist – and husband of 50 years - Steven Roberts, their children, Lee and Rebecca, and six grandchildren.
Former Presidents Obama and George W. Bush were among the leaders from both parties offering tributes to pioneering journalist. “She was a trailblazing figure; a role model to young women at a time when the profession was still dominated by men; a constant over forty years of a shifting media landscape and changing world, informing voters about the issues of our time and mentoring young journalists every step of the way,” Obama said in a statement. "She will be missed — and we send our condolences to her family.”
In their comments, former President Bush and wife Laura Bush said Roberts “covered us for decades as a talented, tough, and fair reporter. We respected her drive and appreciated her humor. She became a friend.”
Source: ABC News