Former actress and First Lady Nancy Reagan turns 90 today. Those nine decades have included a Hollywood career, raising a family while weathering criticism, a crusade to “Just Say No” to drugs — and through it all, unwavering support for her husband, “Ronnie.”
Her Jackie O-esque appeal won both praise and charges of elitism, but her fierce protection of her husband was undoubtably crucial to his success. Through her battle with cancer and his with Alzheimers, she remained steadfast at the side of her husband until his 2004 death.
Known for so long as her husband’s protector and supporter (it is highly unlikely he would have been president without her), today Nancy Reagan maintains an identity and legacy all her own.
Happy birthday, Nancy!