RIP: Gerald Ford

Former President Gerald Ford Dies at 93

Wednesday, Dec 27, 2006 - 07:20 AM

WASHINGTON (AP) - While funeral arrangements for former President Gerald Ford have not been announced, they are expected to reflect his collegial character and unassuming style in the White House.

Planners will be guided by the wishes of the family and any instructions from the president himself on how elaborate the events will be. As a former president, Ford is entitled to a state funeral.

Ford died at his home in Rancho Mirage, California. His funeral plans are expected to include a small private ceremony in Palm Desert, California, and an opportunity for the public to pay respects there before the body is flown to Washington for a period of public mourning in the capital.

Ford is expected to be laid to rest on the grounds of his presidential museum in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The museum has announced that its lobby will be open 24 hours a day starting today and until further notice, while the rest of the museum will be closed during this period.

President Bush, former first lady Nancy Reagan and Ford's former chief of staff Alexander Haig have all expressed their condolences and praised the former leader.

A statement from first lady Betty Ford says the late president was a "beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather."

He was the longest living president, followed by Ronald Reagan, who also died at 93.