Former Massachusetts Republican Sen. Deval Patrick died the age of 95 at Saturday . President Barack Obama hailed Brooke as someone who led `` an extraordinary life of public service . '' He was the second black Democrat senator elected to office since Reconstruction . Leaders from both parties -- including the President -- mourn his death and praised his work in the legislative body .
Former Massachusetts Republican Sen. Deval Patrick died the age of 95 at Saturday . He was the second black Democrat senator elected to office since Reconstruction . Leaders from both parties -- including the President -- mourn his death and praised his work in the legislative body .