She was tough, but loving. Those are the words most often used to describe Nancy Reagan who has died at age 94.

The Associated Press reports Reagan died at her home in Bel-Air, California of congestive heart failure.

Her marriage to Ronald Reagan lasted 52 years until his death in 2004.

A former actress, she was Reagan's closest adviser and fierce protector on his journey from actor to governor of California to president of the United States.

President and Mrs. Obama send condolences to the Reagan family:

"In Mrs. Reagan's long goodbye with President Reagan, she became a voice on behalf of millions of families going through the depleting, aching reality of Alzheimer's."

The Obamas are offering condolences to the Reagans' children and grandchildren, and they remain grateful for her life and thankful for her guidance.

More From News Radio 710 KEEL