Virginia leaders honor legacy of Civil Rights Movement leader Rev. Jesse Jackson after death at 84

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia leaders are taking to social media to honor the life and legacy of Civil Rights Movement leader Rev. Jesse Jackson after his death at the age of 84 on Tuesday morning.

Jesse L. Jackson, the protégé of Rev. Martin Luther King, who ran for president twice and led the Civil Rights Movement for decades after King's assassination, died on Tuesday, Feb. 17, according to the Associated Press. He was 84.

Following the news of Jackson's death, many Virginia leaders have taken to social media to share a message of remembrance regarding his legacy.

Governor Abigail Spanberger (D) shared on social media that she remembered watching Jackson's speeches as a child:

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson.

Rev. Jackson served as a voice for millions of Americans, bringing his fierce advocacy to the pursuits of equality and justice. As a child, I remember being so captivated by his booming voice and passionate speeches that my parents even let me stay up late to watch his famous 1988 DNC speech.

Years later, I had the opportunity to witness this larger-than-life figure beam with quiet pride watching his son Jonathan be sworn into the U.S. House of Representatives. I'll be holding that memory in my heart as Adam and I pray for the entire Jackson family. Gov. Abigail Spanberger

Senator Tim Kaine (D) shared on social media that his first time meeting Jackson was during his term as mayor of Richmond.

I first met Jesse Jackson when I was mayor of Richmond. I knew him by reputation before and really appreciated the chance to get to know him personally in the years that followed. We are all better for his incredible civil rights leadership, and he will be deeply missed. Sen. Tim Kaine

Attorney General Jay Jones (D) applauded Jackson's leadership, courage and conviction in a message on social media.

The passing of the Rev. Jesse Jackson closes a towering chapter in the struggle for justice. From standing with Dr. King to his historic runs for president, he opened pathways in rooms never built for people who look like me. Virginians, and all Americans, are better because of his courage and conviction. Attorney General Jay Jones

8News will continue to update this article as additional statements become available.