Former White House press secretary Tony Snow dies

Former White House press secretary and conservative commentator Tony Snow died of colon cancer Saturday at the age of 53.

“Laura and I are deeply saddened by the death of our dear friend, Tony Snow,” President Bush said in a statement. “Tony was one of our nation’s finest writers and commentators. He earned a loyal following with incisive radio and television broadcasts.”

{mosads}Bush recalled that he was “thrilled” when Snow agreed to serve under him as White House spokesman.

“It was a joy to watch Tony at the podium each day,” the president added. “He brought wit, grace, and a great love of country to his work. His colleagues will cherish memories of his energetic personality and relentless good humor.”

Prior to working at the White House, Snow had worked for Fox News and he joined CNN after leaving the administration.

His public battle with cancer “inspired” millions of Americans, Bush stated.