Michael Reagan, the oldest son of President Ronald Reagan and Jane Wyman, has died in Los Angeles at age 80, it was announced Tuesday.
Reagan’s wife, Colleen, and daughters Cameron Reagan and Ashley Reagan Dunster issued a joint statement saying, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Edward Reagan. Michael was and will always remain a beloved husband, father and grandpa. Michael was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 4th, surrounded by his entire family in Los Angeles, California. Our hearts are deeply broken as we grieve the loss of a man who meant so much to all who knew and loved him. We appreciate your prayers and ask that you would respect our family’s privacy during this difficult time.”
No information was released on a cause of death.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation said in a statement that Michael Reagan was “a steadfast guardian of his father’s legacy.”
“Michael Reagan lived a life shaped by conviction, purpose and an abiding devotion to President Reagan’s ideals,” according to the foundation. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to Colleen, Cameron, Ashley and the entire Reagan family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of sorrow.”
Michael Reagan was adopted shortly after his birth by Ronald Reagan and Wyman, the late president’s first wife.
He was a conservative political commentator and radio talk show host, serving as a contributor to Newsmax.
“We were saddened to learn that Michael Reagan, a founding Newsmax analyst on our network and a columnist for Newsmax.com, passed away,” according to a statement from Newsmax. “Michael, the eldest son of President Ronald Reagan and the late Jane Wyman, was a noted commentator, syndicated radio host and best-selling author.”
Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy added, “Michael Reagan was far more than a political commentator. He was the living embodiment of his father’s legacy, and throughout his life he worked tirelessly to carry forward Ronald Reagan’s torch for freedom, family, and faith. Michael approached everything he did with extraordinary enthusiasm and energy. He deeply loved his family and his country.
“We at Newsmax will miss him greatly and will never forget the role he played in helping build Newsmax into one of the nation’s newest and most influential media outlets. The Reagan family has lost a devoted husband and father, America has lost a great patriot, and I have lost a dear friend.”