Beau Biden, son of VP Joe Biden, dies
WASHINGTON -- Vice President Joe Biden announced Saturday that his son, Beau, has died of brain cancer. Beau Biden was 46.
"It is with broken hearts that Hallie, Hunter, Ashley, Jill and I announce the passing of our husband, brother and son, Beau, after he battled brain cancer with the same integrity, courage and strength he demonstrated every day of his life," the vice president said in a statement late Saturday.
"The entire Biden family is saddened beyond words. We know that Beau's spirit will live on in all of us, especially through his brave wife, Hallie, and two remarkable children."
President Barack Obama said he and the first lady were grieving alongside the Biden family.
"Michelle and I humbly pray for the good Lord to watch over Beau Biden, and to protect and comfort his family here on Earth," Obama said.
The younger Biden was a lawyer, member of the Delaware National Guard and former Delaware attorney general.
He was hospitalized earlier this month at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The vice president's office had declined to say what he was being treated for.
In 2010, Beau Biden suffered a mild stroke. Three years later, he underwent surgery at a Texas cancer center to remove what was described as a small lesion.
He announced last year that he would not seek a third term as attorney general and instead planned to run for governor in 2016.
Governor Pat McCrory released the following statement on the passing of Beau Biden:
Ann and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Beau Biden, who demonstrated his strong commitment to public service in the Delaware National Guard and as the former Delaware attorney general. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Biden family during this difficult time.
NC Attorney General Roy Cooper's tweeted Sunday, "My friend Beau Biden fought for everyday people and truly believed in justice for all. Rest in peace, Beau."
Senator Richard Burr also expressed his condolences in a statement:
I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Beau Biden. My prayers are with the Vice President and his family in this heartbreaking time. Beau served his country with distinction. I had known of Beau's fight against cancer but I did not realize that it would take his life so soon. I know his family will find peace in the life he lived.
