Former Texas Governor Ann Richards, known for her wit and flamboyance, died Sept. 13 after a battle with esophageal cancer, the Associated Press reported. She was 73.
Richards died at home surrounded by her family. Richards was found to have cancer in March and underwent chemotherapy treatments.
The fiery Richards—who was governor for one term, losing her re-election bid to Republican George W. Bush—said she entered politics to help others, especially women and minorities.
Among her quips was a description of George H.W. Bush at the 1988 Democratic National Convention: 'Poor George, he can't help it—he was born with a silver foot in his mouth,' the Houston Chronicle noted.
Human Rights Campaign ( HRC ) was among the many groups and individuals that mourned her passing. In a press release, HRC President Joe Solmonese said in part that 'We mourn the loss of a friend—a friend who understood that all of us have something to contribute and that Texas and America are stronger when we are united as a people.'
Richards lay in state at the Texas Capitol this past weekend. On Sept. 18, a public memorial was held at the University of Texas' Frank Erwin Center, KBTV's Web site reported. The memorial service featured speakers including New York Senator Hillary Clinton and former San Antonio mayor Henry Cisneros. Richards' burial was private.