SALT LAKE CITY – Gov. Gary R. Herbert has authorized the lowering of the flag of the United States of America and the flag of the state of Utah as a sign of respect for former First Lady Nancy Reagan.

The former first lady died of congestive heart failure Sunday at her home in Los Angeles.

Read more: Former first lady Nancy Reagan dies at 94 in California

Herbert wrote in his news release Monday:

Jeanette and I express our deepest sympathies to the Reagan family on the passing of former First Lady Nancy Reagan. Mrs. Reagan was an extraordinary woman who served our nation with grace and dignity. We often speak about the tremendous leadership of President Reagan, but none of that would have been possible without Nancy. She was his equal in every way. While we mourn her passing, we take comfort in knowing that she is once again reunited with her beloved husband and best friend.

Sen. Orrin Hatch, the senior Republican in the U.S. Senate, issued the following statement on the passing of former first lady Nancy Reagan:

Nancy Reagan was a truly great American. A devoted wife, she was President Reagan’s rock during the good times and the bad. A passionate advocate, she fought heroically for the causes in which she believed, from keeping our kids drug-free to finding cures for the disease that took her beloved husband from her. Above all, she was a dear friend, and I will miss her greatly. Elaine and I send our thoughts and prayers to the entire Reagan family at this difficult time.

The flag will continue to be flown at half-staff until sunset on the date of interment.

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