Sen. Dianne Feinstein was honored by President Joe Biden and other high-profile Democrats at a private funeral service Thursday in San Francisco.
Feinstein, the oldest member of the Senate, the longest-serving female senator and the longest-serving California senator, died early Friday at the age of 90.
Biden delivered a tribute to Feinstein’s life and legacy by audio message, while the other Democratic leaders — Vice President Kamala Harris, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California — made remarks in person. San Francisco Mayor London Breed opened the service.
“She was always tough, prepared, rigorous and compassionate,” Biden said in his recorded message. “She always served the people of California and our nation for the right reasons, to make life better for everyday people and ensure America stood for freedom, transparency and justice at home and abroad.”
The funeral took place at San Francisco City Hall, where Feinstein began her political career on the city’s board of supervisors before becoming mayor in 1978, serving for a decade in that role. She was elected to the Senate in 1992.
“There are few women who can be called senator, chairman, mayor, wife, mom and grandmother,” Feinstein’s office said in the statement announcing her passing. “Senator Feinstein was a force of nature who made an incredible impact on our country and her home state. She left a legacy that is undeniable and extraordinary.”
Feinstein’s memorial service was initially open to the public, but it was changed to a private event for security reasons, according to a news release. The service was livestreamed on San Francisco Government TV’s YouTube page. Feinstein’s body lay in state at San Francisco City Hall on Wednesday.
“Dianne made her mark on everything from national security to the environment to protecting civil liberties,” Biden said in a statement after the announcement of her death last week. “She’s made history in so many ways, and our country will benefit from her legacy for generations.”
Feinstein’s granddaughter, Eileen Mariano, delivered the closing remarks Thursday, followed by a music performance by the San Francisco Girls Chorus.
Mariano said her grandmother would be remembered for “shattering the glass ceiling.”
“She showed young women everywhere that they too can be leaders, that they can make an impact, and that they deserve a seat at the table,” Mariano said. “But to me, she will be remembered as the most incredible grandmother.”
Harris swore in Feinstein’s temporary, appointed successor, Laphonza Butler, on Tuesday. Several Democrats, including Reps. Adam Schiff, Katie Porter and Barbara Lee, are vying for the seat next year.
This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
