Projo 7 to 7 News Blog

Congressman Patrick Kennedy, left, and his father, U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy, and his wife, Vicki, arrive at Trinity Church this morning. Journal photo / Frieda Squires

NEWPORT -- The funeral services for former U.S. Sen. Claiborne Pell are under way in Trinity Church.

U.S. Sen Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts just finished delivering a eulogy, highlighting Pell's accomplishments, including his key role in creating what came to be known as the Pell Grants, to help underprivileged students pursue a college career, as well as the National Endowments for the Arts and the Humanites.

Kennedy called Pell an extraordinary man, a respected leader, a valued colleague and a wonderful friend."

He described Pell, known as a quirky blueblood, as a gentleman and a gentle man, saying "on the outside he was calm and composed, but deep down he was a real fighter."

Former President Bill Clinton is now speaking.

Clinton had led a group of U.S. senators at 9:52 a.m. from the parish hall into the Trinity Church.

Just behind them were Pell's family, including his wife of 64 years, Nuala O'Donnell Pell.

Here's the list of speakers:

Reading from the Old Testament - Isaiah 61: 1-3 -- Dr. Tripler Pell, granddaughter

Psalm 23 -- Herbert Claiborne Pell IV, grandson

New Testament- Revelation 21:2-7 -- Eames Hamilton Yates, Jr., grandson

New Testament - John 14:1-6 -- Christina Pell Randall, granddaughter

Eulogies:

• Hon. Edward M. Kennedy
• Hon. William J. Clinton
• Hon. Joseph R. Biden, Jr.
• Hon. Jack Reed


• Mr. Nicholas Lorillard Pell, grandson

Blessing:

The Right Reverend Geralyn Wolf, Bishop of Rhode Island

Honorary Pall Bearers: John A. Cummings, Thomas G. Hughes, John L. Lewis, Columbus O'Donnell, Haven N.B. Pell, Bruce G. Sundlun, John G. Winslow, Eames H. Yates, Jr.

 Tags  Claiborne Pell Newport R.I.

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