Mario Cuomo, long-time governor of New York, died on New Year's Day, according to a Reuters report. Within 24 hours of his passing, fans, the media, world leaders, celebrities, and former constituents have sent their condolences on social media sources and in the press. The New York Times reports that plans for Mario Cuomo's funeral have been announced, with further details to follow.
"Michelle and I were saddened to learn of the passing of former New York Governor Mario Cuomo. An Italian Catholic kid from Queens, born to immigrant parents, Mario paired his faith in God and faith in America to live a life of public service -- and we are all better for it. He rose to be chief executive of the state he loved, a determined champion of progressive values, and an unflinching voice for tolerance, inclusiveness, fairness, dignity, and opportunity. His own story taught him that as Americans, we are bound together as one people, and our country's success rests on the success of all of us, not just a fortunate few. Michelle and I extend our deepest condolences to Mario's wife Matilda, his children, Governor Andrew Cuomo, Maria, Margaret, Madeline, and Chris, and his family, friends, and New Yorkers who loved him dearly."In office from 1983 to 1992, New Yorkers continued to adore their former leader long after Mario Cuomo retired from his position. Across the world, writers picked their favorite quotes and speeches from Mario Cuomo's media spotlight over the past five decades. Many articles, like the obituary published hours after his death by the L.A. Times, focus on Mario Cuomo's 1984 Democratic Convention Speech where he chastised President Ronald Regan. Other major media sources, like the New York Times, have produced mini-biographies that cover his entire life.
Funeral plans for Mario Cuomo have been announced by the New York Times, and are set for Tuesday, January 6. Mario Cuomo's funeral will be held at the Church of St. Ignatius Loyola, located at 980 Park Avenue on the Upper East Side. Mario Cuomo's funeral may delay the delivery of his son's annual State of the State address. Currently, flags on state government buildings in New York are being flown at half-staff as per the request of the current Governor Cuomo.
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