Ted Kennedy has died, aged 77.

The iconic Democratic U.S. Senator from Massachusetts — who was diagnosed with a malignant glioma, an especially lethal type of brain tumor, following a seizure in May last year — passed away Tuesday.

“Edward M. Kennedy – the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle we loved so deeply – died late Tuesday night at home in Hyannis Port,” his family said in a statement. “We’ve lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever.

“We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all.

“He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it’s hard to imagine any of them without him.”

American senator TED KENNEDY, the only surviving brother of late president JOHN F. KENNEDY, is recovering at his Massachusetts home after he was briefly hospitalized on Friday (26Sep08).

The ailing 76-year-old, who underwent surgery to remove a cancerous brain tumour in June (08), was taken to Cape Cod Hospital by ambulance on Friday evening, after emergency services received a 911 call from the Kennedy compound at Hyannis Port in Barnstable, according to local police Sergeant Ben Baxter.

Kennedy, who had complained about feeling ill, was “alert and responsive” as he was transported to the medical centre.

He was discharged after three hours and returned home.

Further details of his illness was unavailable as WENN went to press.

Kennedy was diagnosed with a malignant glioma, an especially lethal type of brain tumour, following a seizure in May (08).