Barack Obama mourns John Lewis' death: 'We now all have our marching orders'

Washington : Former President Barack Obama on Saturday mourned the death of longtime Georgia lawmaker and civil rights leader John Lewis.

He passed away at the age of 80, seven months after he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

"He loved this country so much that he risked his life and his blood so that it might live up to its promise," Obama said in his statement. "And through the decades, he not only gave all of himself to the cause of freedom and justice, but inspired generations that followed to try to live up to his example."

"Not many of us get to live to see our own legacy play out in such a meaningful, remarkable way. John Lewis did," Obama added. "And thanks to him, we now all have our marching orders — to keep believing in the possibility of remaking this country we love until it lives up to its full promise."

The two lawmakers are known for their admiration for each other. Lewis was often seen backing Barack Obama.

In 2011, Barack Obama has awarded Lewis with the President Medal of Freedom, the country's highest honor for civilians.

After Obama was sworn in for his first term, Lewis had asked him to sign a commemorative picture, according to The New Yorker. Obama reportedly signed it, "Because of you, John. Barack Obama."