Sonia Peres, the wife of Israeli President Shimon Peres, died in Tel Aviv on Thursday.

She was 88. She is also survived by three children, Tzvia, Yonatan and Nehemiah.

Her son-in law Rafi Walden, a deputy director at Sheba Medical Center made the announcement on Israel Radio.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Peres, according to the Jerusalem Post.

In her modest and quiet life, Sonia represented good heartedness and became a symbol and example of modesty and love of man, Netanyahu said.

Defense Minister Ehud Barack also sent his condolences.

Sony Peres was a special woman and person. She was a symbol of modesty, simplicity and love of her fellow man. She made sure to stay away from the spotlight and keep her life private. She constantly helped those in need; everyone who knew her appreciated her. May her memory be blessed, Barak said.

Sonia Peres was born Sonia Gelman in the Ukraine.

Sony Israel Ukraine Sony