Thomas More Society of Chicago Mourns the Loss of a Man that "Stood for Life with Unwavering Dedication"

Contact: Tom Brejcha, Thomas More Society, 312-782-1680, 312-590-3408 (cell); Drew Schadegg, TC Public Relations, 312-422-1333

CHICAGO, Illinois, Nov. 29 /Christian Newswire/ -- Henry John Hyde, a U.S. Congressman and tireless advocate for the life of the unborn, passed away this morning at the age of 83. As the chairman of several major committees at the center of repeated national controversies, Henry Hyde was regarded on "both sides of the aisle" as "a paragon of dignity, civility and commitment to principle, and ... a lion of the right to life." (Comments of Rep. Mark Pence, R. Ind. at a 2005 dedication ceremony of a room in the U.S. Capitol in the name of Henry Hyde). In October, Hyde was given the Thomas More Society's "Man for All Seasons Award" for his strong support of their work and mission.

Tom Brejcha, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Society states:

"Henry Hyde was truly a giant in the pro-life community and a friend to the Thomas More Society. During our hard fought NOW v Scheidler trial in the Supreme Court, Congressman Hyde came back to Washington to be a character witness for Joe Scheidler. In his testimony he praised Scheidler and other pro-lifers for doing what he wished others had done at the Nazi deathcamps, like Auschwitz and Dachau. The testimony provoked a rebuke from the trial judge, but brought loud applause from those in the audience. We will miss him greatly."

Henry Hyde stood for life both "in" and "out" of season, conducting himself with fairness, equanimity, civility and good cheer--but also with unwavering dedication. The Thomas More Society of Chicago extends its deepest sympathies to Congressman Hyde's family and friends.