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Michael Reagan, the eldest son of former President Ronald Reagan and actress Jane Wyman, has died at 80, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute announced in a statement released from Simi Valley, California, on Tuesday.
Reagan was a conservative author, nationally syndicated radio talk show host and frequent public speaker who spent decades actively defending and promoting his father’s legacy through close involvement with the Reagan Library and Foundation.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute said it “mourns the passing of Michael Reagan,” describing him as “a steadfast guardian of his father’s legacy.”
“Michael Reagan lived a life shaped by conviction, purpose, and an abiding devotion to President Reagan’s ideals,” the Foundation said in the statement.
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Michael Reagan speaks at the 2004 Republican National Convention at Madison Square Garden in New York City. (Carley Margolis/FilmMagic)
The Foundation also cited President Reagan’s own words about his son from “An American Life,” quoting the former president as writing, “When I read his book, I had even more of a fatherly pride in Mike than I had had before…. he was happy and at peace with himself.”
Michael Reagan’s death marks “a profound loss,” the Foundation said, adding that his “presence, warmth, and unwavering commitment will be deeply missed at the Reagan Library and far beyond its walls.”
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The organization extended condolences to Reagan’s family, including his wife Colleen and children Cameron and Ashley.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.