Ted Kennedy Dies at Age 77

Massachusetts Sen. Ted Kennedy died shortly before midnight Tuesday at his home in Hyannis Port, after more than year-long battle with brain cancer. He was 77.

"We've lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever," the Kennedy family said in a statement. "He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it."

Kennedy was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in May 2008 and underwent a successful brain surgery soon after that. But his health continued to deteriorate, and he suffered a seizure while attending the luncheon following President Barack Obama's inauguration.

Edward Kennedy, nicknamed "Ted" was the younger brother of assassinated President John F. Kennedy and New York Sen. Robert Kennedy, who was gunned down while seeking the White House in 1968.

Kennedy is survived by his second wife, Victoria Ann Reggie Kennedy, whom he married in 1992; his first wife, Joan Bennett; and five children -- Patrick, Kara and Edward Jr. from his first marriage, and Curran and Caroline Raclin from his second.