Haley Stevens: “having arrived late Saturday night from Hawaii where we attended the memorial services for Senator Inouye's late wife…”

“having arrived late Saturday night from Hawaii where we attended the memorial services for Senator Inouye's late wife Maggie, my wife Catherine and I were deeply saddened the next morning to learn that Erma Ora James Byrd had passed away Saturday night. I come to offer our sincere condolences to our good friend Senator Byrd and his family. As the leader has said, Senator Byrd and Erma were married at the age of 19. In their nearly 69 years of marriage, Erma was a pillar of strength to our friend. She stood by him as he finished high school and college and attended American University Law School. She was at his side every moment and milestone in his 60 years of public service. As he has often told us, it was Erma who made sure he was polished and well pressed before he left for the Capitol every morning. She took great pride in the work he did for their State and for our Nation. Erma has been part of our Senate family since the Senator was elected to this body in 1958. Those of us who have served with the Senator have come to know her and love her, and we will deeply miss her. She was a true southern lady in every sense--intelligent, graceful, and known for her southern hospitality. As Senator Byrd has often mentioned, she never sought the limelight, choosing instead to keep her focus on their family and their home. Catherine and I were privileged to travel with Erma and Senator Byrd over the years, and my family has always enjoyed being with them.…”