Charlton Heston Dies at 84

Originally posted Sunday April 06, 2008 12:00 AM EDT

Oscar winner Charlton Heston died Saturday night at his home in Beverly Hills. He was 84 years old.

He died with Lydia, his wife of 64 years, at his side, the Heston family said in a statement.

No cause of death was released. In 2002, in a moving videotaped announcement, the star confirmed he had been diagnosed with symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer's disease.

Heston won the Academy Award for best actor in 1959's “Ben-Hur.” He also played Moses in The Ten Commandments in 1956. Later in life, he was known as much for his political work than acting, serving as president of the National Rifle Association.

"Charlton Heston was seen by the world as larger than life," said the family statement. "He was known for his chiseled jaw, broad shoulders and resonating voice, and, of course, for the roles he played. Indeed, he committed himself to every role with passion, and pursued every cause with unmatched enthusiasm and integrity.

"We knew him as an adoring husband, a kind and devoted father, and a gentle grandfather, with an infectious sense of humor. He served these far greater roles with tremendous faith, courage and dignity. He loved deeply, and he was deeply loved.

"No one could ask for a fuller life than his. No man could have given more to his family, to his profession, and to his country. In his own words: 'I have lived such a wonderful life! I've lived enough for two people.'"