R.I.P.

BREAKING: Rep. John Murtha Has Passed

Here’s the press release from his office:

Congressman John P. Murtha (PA-12) passed away peacefully this afternoon at 1:18 p.m. at Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington, VA. At his bedside was his family.

Murtha, 77, was Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense.

First elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in February of 1974, Murtha dedicated his life to serving his country both in the military and in the halls of Congress. A former Marine, he became the first Vietnam War combat Veteran elected to the U.S. Congress.

This past Saturday, February 6, 2010, Murtha became Pennsylvania's longest serving Member of Congress.

Boehner’s Chief Of Staff Dies Unexpectedly

Via FOX News

A 46-year-old top aide to House Republican Leader John Boehner died suddenly, reportedly from a heart attack, the minority leader announced Sunday.

"It is with profound sadness and shock that I announce the passing of Paula Nowakowski, my longtime chief of staff, trusted aide, and friend, who died suddenly last night. Words cannot adequately express the sorrow and disbelief I and every member of our team are grappling with today in the wake of this stunning news," Boehner said in a statement on his House leadership Web site.

"We will remember Paula as she would want to be remembered -- as a tireless worker, faithful friend, rabid Detroit sports fan, whip-smart strategist, warrior for freedom, and devoted Catholic who counted President Ronald Reagan and Pope John Paul II among her greatest heroes. She will never be replaced, or forgotten," Boehner continued.

Only 46. What a shocker.

BREAKING: Oral Roberts Dead At 91

Via GottaLafff:

A spokesman for Oral Roberts says the evangelist and university founder has died at age 91.