Former US presidents offer condolences over passing of Queen Elizabeth II

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - Former US presidents on Thursday offered condolences over the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Donald Trump said Elizabeth’s reign “left a tremendous legacy of peace and prosperity for Great Britain.”

"Melania and I are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II," he said in a statement. "Together with our family and fellow Americans, we send our sincere condolences to the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom during this time of great sorrow and grief."

"Melania and I will always cherish our time together with the Queen, and never forget Her Majesty’s generous friendship, great wisdom, and wonderful sense of humor," Trump wrote.

Barack Obama said he and his wife Michelle were "lucky enough" to know the queen, who he said "meant a great deal to us."

"Like so many, Michelle and I are grateful to have witnessed Her Majesty’s dedicated leadership, and we are awed by her legacy of tireless, dignified public service. Our thoughts are with her family and the people of the United Kingdom at this difficult time," he said in a statement.

Bill Clinton called the late queen an inspiration "throughout her lifetime of service."

"Hillary and I mourn the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and we join with people across the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, and all around the world, in giving thanks for her extraordinary life," Clinton said in a statement.

"Throughout her remarkable 70-year reign, she led Britain through great transformations with unfailing grace, dignity, and genuine care for the welfare of all its people. In sunshine or storm, she was a source of stability, serenity, and strength," he added.

George W. Bush also offered "heartfelt" condolences from him and his wife to the royal family and the British people.

"Laura and I were honored to have known Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She was a woman of great intellect, charm, and wit," said Bush.

"Spending time at Buckingham Palace, and having tea with Her Majesty – and her Corgis – is among our fondest memories of the presidency. Queen Elizabeth ably led England through dark moments with her confidence in her people and her vision for a brighter tomorrow," he added.

Elizabeth II, 96, was the longest-serving monarch in British history. Buckingham Palace said she "died peacefully" at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

"The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow," it added.

The queen had mobility and health issues for the past year stemming from old age. She had to cancel several engagements due to her health and her physician's advice.

Her final public appearance was during the Platinum Jubilee celebration in June as the monarch marked 70 years on the British throne. A statement issued mid-day on Thursday said the queen was placed under "medical supervision" at Balmoral in Aberdeenshire.