By Steve Neavling
ticklethewire.com
Former FBI director J. Edgar Hoover died 44 years ago Monday.
Here is the original New York Daily News story about his death on May 2, 1972:
FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, 77, the nation’s towering symbol of law enforcement for nearly half a century, died at his home during the night.
Death struck without warning. Hoover believed himself in excellent health and put in a full day at work yesterday.
President Nixon made an impromptu appearance in the White House press room to praise Hoover’s “unparalleled devotion” to his country and to express his “profound sense of personal loss.” The President ordered that all flags on government buildings be flown at half staff.
Congress swiftly passed a resolution providing for Hoover’s body to lie in state that traditionally is reserved for Presidents, war heroes and distinguished legislators. He will be the first civil servant in American history to be so honored.
Hoover’s body was found on the floor beside his bed in his northwest Washington home by his maid, Annie Fields, who arrived about 8:30 a.m. to make his breakfast.
Dr. James L. Luke, District of Columbia coroner, attributed Hoover’s death to “hypertensive cardiovascular disease” — an ailment linked to high blood pressure. Luke said the immediate cause of death could have been a heart attack. He said an autopsy was not indicated.
Hoover’s body will lie in state in the rotunda from tomorrow morning until 9:30 a.m. Thursday.
The funeral service will be at the National Presbyterian Church at 11 a.m. Thursday. Nixon will deliver the eulogy.
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