Ferraro 's cause of death was complications from multiple myeloma , a blood cancer she had battled for 12 years , according to a statement released by her family in Boston . NEW : A funeral service is held for Democratic vice - presidential candidate Geraldine Ferraro . She died Saturday after a long battle with breast cancer . She was the first woman nominated for a major party 's national ticket .
NEW : A funeral service is held for Democratic vice - presidential candidate Geraldine Ferraro . She died Saturday after a long battle with breast cancer . She was the first woman nominated for a major party 's national ticket .