Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin issued the following statement on the passing of former Governor J. Joseph Garrahy:
"Rhode Island has lost a great leader and statesman. I was saddened to learn of the passing of former Governor J. Joseph Garrahy this morning. He was one of our most treasured and trusted public officials, and remained a role model for all throughout his life.
"I remember my first encounter with Governor Garrahy in the early 1970's when he was Lieutenant Governor and attended a ceremony for my Boy Scout troop. His commitment to youth is a trait I try to emulate to this day.
"His steady and comforting presence helped all Rhode Islanders get through the Blizzard of '78. It was in large part through his persistence that Rhode Island was declared a federal disaster after the storm. Although Governor Garrahy will always be most remembered as a beloved statesman, he will also be remembered as one who lived the American Dream, starting out as a Narragansett beer salesman, rising through the ranks politically to governor, and then becoming a skilled businessman. His acumen and expertise was consistently sought by others.
"Governor Garrahy was a true statesman, gentleman and family man, and will be missed greatly. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Margherite, their five children, and their entire family."