Uruguay mourns death of late President Tabare Vazquez

Mourners gathered in Montevideo on Sunday to say goodbye to former Uruguayan President Tabare Vazquez who died early Sunday at the age of 80.

Uruguay's first socialist president, who rose from poverty to win two terms as leader, died of cancer, a disease the physician dedicated much of his life to fighting. The 80-year-old oncologist announced last year that he had lung cancer.

Supporters left flowers, t-shirts, and other mementos at a makeshift memorial outside his home.

In the main streets people lined to see his hearse, decorated with flowers, travel through parts of Montevideo. At one point, it drove in front of Parliament, as mourners clapped and chanted.

"He leaves an important legacy that people can follow, the ideas that he leaves us, the (idea to) fight for the weakest," said Natalia Obaldía.

Vazquez died a year after being diagnosed with lung cancer, and his condition worsened in recent weeks, said his family.

Some mourners cried at seeing the hearse drive in front of them, while others waved flags and clapped.

Uruguay is observing a day of national mourning.