U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) issued the following statement on the passing of Mrs. Erma Byrd, wife of Senator Robert C. Byrd:

We have lost a great daughter of West Virginia. A coal miner's daughter, Erma Byrd was born and raised in the hills of southern West Virginia. More than 68 years ago she married a young man named Robert C. Byrd and for the past decades they have enjoyed a wonderful life together working for the people of West Virginia and all Americans.

One of my life's greatest privileges was to know Mrs. Byrd. Always wearing a warm smile, encouraging with a kind word, reassuring with a gentle hand, Mrs. Byrd lived a life for others, clearing a path for each of us.

Her life full of compassion towards others garnered her much respect and admiration throughout my home state of West Virginia. Generations of West Virginians were touched by the life of Erma Byrd. The unfortunate news of her passing will bring sadness to all West Virginians, as even those who did not have the opportunity to meet Mrs. Byrd stand in admiration of Erma and everything for which she stands.

Scripture tells us that faith hope and love abide. The spirit of Mrs. Byrd always abided with these virtues and now always will through those whom her life so graciously touched.

It was a wonderful waltz that lasted over 68 years for Senator and Mrs. Byrd. My family's thoughts and prayers for the Senator and his family join those of countless West Virginians and fellow Americans as we honor and remember the remarkable life of Erma Byrd.