U.S. Senator John McCain was a “role model for respect, courage and the duty to something greater than oneself,” U.S. Senator Patty Murray said in a statement following the Arizona Republican and former presidential candidate’s death on Saturday.

Murray (D-WA) released the followed statement:

“The world lost a giant tonight. Perhaps no figure in my lifetime better represents someone so dedicated to his country than John McCain, who redefined what it meant to serve and who will always be a role model for respect, courage and the duty to something greater than oneself.

“I will never forget our time working together in the Senate. Whether it was side-by-side, or on opposite sides, he earned my respect every time and I truly believe the Congress and our country are both better places for his life’s work.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. May they find comfort knowing that his courage and sacrifice forever shaped the great country he loved so dearly,” Murray said.