RIP: Eunice Kennedy Shriver

Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister of JFK, mother of Maria Shriver and the founder of the Special Olympics, passed away early this morning at the age of 88. During the past few years, Eunice suffered several strokes and wasn't doing too well. Her family gathered at the Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, Mass. last week to begin to say their goodbyes. The Shriver family released a statement, here's a little bit of it:

"She was the light of our lives, a mother, wife, grandmother, sister and aunt who taught us by example and with passion what it means to live a faith-driven life of love and service to others. For each of us, she often seemed to stop time itself -- to run another Special Olympics Games, to visit us in our homes, to attend to her own mother, her sisters and brothers, and to sail, tell stories, and laugh and serve her friends. We have always been honored to share our mother with people of good will the world over who believe, as she did, that there is no limit to the human spirit. At this time of loss, we feel overwhelmed by the gifts of prayer and support poured out to us from so many who loved her. We are together in our belief that she is now in heaven, rejoicing with her family, enjoying the fruits of her faith, and still urging us onward to the challenges ahead. Her love will inspire us to faith and service always."