PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement on the life and legacy of Rhode Island Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio, 76, who passed away after a battle with cancer:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Senate President Dominick Ruggerio, a distinguished public servant, a champion for working people and our state, and a dear friend.

“Through decades of service to his constituents in North Providence and Providence, and to the entire state of Rhode Island, Donny devoted his life to improving our communities, strengthening public health and public safety, and creating new opportunities for all Rhode Islanders to thrive.

“I will miss Donny’s friendship and his unwavering advocacy for our state and the people who make it a special place. Rhode Island is better today because of Senate President Ruggerio’s leadership and dedication.

“My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the whole Ruggerio family, Donny’s children and grandchildren, and his colleagues and friends.”