The death has taken place of Pat Hume, wife of the late John Hume.
Mrs. Hume passed away earlier today after a short illness.
The Derry Journal reported: "Recognised in her own right as a brilliant community politician she ran the SDLP's constituency office during her late husband's time in politics, dealing with community issues, housing and poverty, treating every person, irrespective of religious identity, with respect and compassion when they sought her assistance.
"A former teacher, she was a champion for victims of the 'Troubles' when appointed to the Northern Ireland Memorial Fund in 1998, just after the Good Friday Agreement.
"Her work with victims included grants for their children to attend college and receive assistance.
"Last month, she was present with other members of her family when they presented her late husband's major international peace prizes to the people of Derry in a poignant ceremony in the Guildhall."
Immediate U.S. reaction came from Congressman Richard Neal, chairman of the Friends of Ireland in Congress.
Said Neal: “I am deeply saddened at the news that my good friend Pat Hume passed away today. Along with her husband John, they made a formidable couple that helped change the course of modern Irish history.
"I last visited with her in 2019 when I traveled to her hometown of Derry with Speaker of House Nancy Pelosi to discuss Brexit and the current status of the Irish peace process.
"Pat was a remarkable woman who became a role model to many people on both sides of the Atlantic who are determined to make Ireland a more peaceful and more prosperous place for future generations. My thoughts are with the entire Hume family during this difficult time."
