DEMOREST, Ga. — Former Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal died at the age of 80 on Tuesday night, according to her family.

Deal died Tuesday at her home in Demorest surrounded by her husband, former Georgia Governor Nathan Deal, and their family.

She had been battling breast cancer that metastasized to her brain. She was first diagnosed with cancer in 2018.

During her time as First Lady between 2011 and 2019, Deal worked to improve literacy across the state, visiting schools in all of Georgia’s 159 counties and 181 school districts to read to students.

Officials across the state are remembering her for that dedication to educating the minds of young Georgians.

Many, like current Governor Brian Kemp, are also remembering Deal’s “refined spirit” and “genuine kindness.” He released a lengthy statement on Tuesday night detailing Deal’s life and legacy from her time in office.

“As she will for so many Georgians, Mrs. Deal will remain steadfast in our hearts and memories, just as her family will be in our prayers during this time of mourning. As she goes to await them in a greater world, we ask all Georgians to join us in celebrating her life and contributions to a thankful state,” Gov. Kemp said in his statement.

Governor Kemp’s opponent in the upcoming general election, Democratic challenger Stacey Abrams, also released a statement saying Deal left an “indelible mark on Georgia.”

Read more at WSBTV.com.

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