March 31, 2005—Terri Schiavo died this morning in a Florida hospice.

U.S. Rep. Trent Franks: “We were blessed as Americans that Terry Schiavo lived among us.  Her warm smile and gentle spirit in the face of suffering and adversity were an example few of us could ever emulate.  She has reminded us all of both the miracle and brevity of life.  My heart is broken for her family and those who loved her most.

“It is my hope and prayer that she has at last found that place of welcome and mercy—that she has needed so much for so long—but was refused by her fellow human beings.”