"I remember in his inaugural speech he said, 'You have not elected me as your president by your ballots, and so I ask you to confirm me as your president with your prayers' ... God certainly answered those prayers. President Ford was the great healer, and brought us together. We owe a great debt to him for how he put principle over politics at a crucial time in the life of or nation." - the Rev. Billy Graham.
"The American people will always admire Gerald Ford's devotion to duty, his personal character and the honorable conduct of his administration." - President George W. Bush.
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"An outstanding statesman, he wisely chose the path of healing during a deeply divisive time in our nation's history. He frequently rose above politics by emphasizing the need for bipartisanship and seeking common ground on issues critical to our nation." - Former President Jimmy Carter.
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"The nation's appreciation for the contributions that President Ford made throughout his long and well-lived life are more than we could ever have anticipated. These kindnesses have made this difficult time more bearable." - Former first lady Betty Ford.
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"Jerry Ford was, simply put, one of the most decent and capable men I ever met. ... Most of all, I will remember him as a devoted family man and a man of honor who never stopped serving this country he loved so deeply." - Former President George H.W. Bush.
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"He was a friend to everyone who met him. He had no enemies." - Former Sen. Bob Dole, R-Kan., Ford's 1976 running mate.
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