Family statement on Sen. Pell passing

NEWPORT, R.I. (WPRI) - Senator Claiborne deBorda Pell, 90, who served as a United States Senator from Rhode Island from 1961 to 1997, died early this morning at his home in Newport, RI.

Senator Pell, who had suffered from Parkinson's disease for a number of years, died peacefully in the presence of his wife Nuala and family members.

During his 36 years in the Senate, Senator Pell devoted himself primarily education, the arts and humanities and to America's foreign policy. He often expressed a seven-word definition of his job: "Translate ideas into actions and help people."

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Nuala O'Donnell Pell; a son, Christopher T.H. Pell of Newport; a daughter, Dallas Pell of New York City; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.