ATHENS, Nov. 21 (Xinhua) -- Greece on Monday bid farewell to former president Kostis Stephanopoulos, who passed away at 90 on Sunday night.
Stephanopoulos had served two consecutive terms as president of the Hellenic Republic from 1995 to 2005.
The conservative mildly-spoken lawyer first entered politics in 1958 and was one of the most popular statesmen in Greece.
"During his entire career, especially as president of the Republic, Stephanopoulos set an example of serving the public interest in a selfless, dignified and consistent manner," said current President Prokopis Palvopoulos.
Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras paid respect to a "moral man with a great vision for Greek society."
Offering their condolences, opposition parties also talked about an exemplary politician who won the hearts of the majority of citizens with his low profile, seriousness, political ethos and consensus-building.
Stephanopoulos leaves behind three children. His wife passed away in 1988. His funeral will be held in Athens on Tuesday.
