This story is free to read.

Obama praises Nancy Reagan as a source of comfort, strength

The U.S. flag is lowered to half staff above the White House in Washington, Monday, March 7, 2016. President Barack Obama ordered that flags be lowered at all government buildings after signing a proclamation on the death of former first lady Nancy Reagan. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais) The U.S. flag is lowered to half staff above the White House in Washington, Monday, March 7, 2016. President Barack Obama ordered that flags be lowered at all government buildings after signing a proclamation on the death of former first lady Nancy Reagan. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)

By Associated Press March 7, 2016 1 min read

WASHINGTON (AP) – President Barack Obama says he once had the opportunity to meet with former first lady Nancy Reagan and that she could not have been more charming and gracious.

Obama says it’s well documented the extraordinary love that she had for former President Ronald Reagan and the comfort and strength she provided him in hard times.

Obama says he has been lucky to have an extraordinary partner in his life as well, and that he believes the former president was lucky to have Nancy Reagan in his life.

The president is speaking about the former first lady after meeting with financial regulators and advisers. Mrs. Reagan passed away Sunday at the age of 94.