IANS/DPA

Washington, Aug 26: US Senator Edward Kennedy, who became the Kennedy family's political standard bearer after his brothers, president John F. Kennedy and senator Robert Kennedy, were assassinated, has died at 77 after battling brain cancer.

His family released a statement announcing his death late Tuesday at his home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts.

The youngest Kennedy brother, also known as "Teddy", was one of the longest serving US senators, spending 46 years in the chamber, where he was known as a liberal lion.

He was diagnosed with brain cancer in May 2008.

"Edward M. Kennedy - the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle we loved so deeply - died late Tuesday night at home in Hyannis Port," the family said in a statement published by The Boston Globe.

"We've lost the irreplaceable centre of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever.

"We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all.

"He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it.

"He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it's hard to imagine any of them without him."