HONOLULU -- Margaret Inouye, 81, the wife of senior U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, died in Washington on Monday.

Inouye had been admitted to a hospital in Washington because of blood clots and fluid in her right lung last week. She died at Walter Reed Army Medical Center from complications due to colon cancer at about 11 a.m. Hawaii Standard Time, Sen. Inouye's office said.

In 2004, doctors removed a cancerous growth from "Maggie" Inouye's large intestine. She had been getting chemotherapy after that time.

Sen. Inouye married Margaret Shinobu Awamura in 1948. Inouye has been in the U.S. Senate since 1962.

"It was a most special blessing to have had Maggie in my life for 58 years. She was my inspiration, and all that I have accomplished could not have been done without her at my side. We were a team. She always supported me, listened to my ideas, and many times offered invaluable suggestions that always proved she was capable of achieving as much on her own right, given her intelligence and education. Instead, she chose to join me on a special journey that took us to Washington, and gave us the privilege of serving the people of Hawaii," Sen. Inouye said.

"I was deeply saddened to learn of Mrs. Inouye's death. She was the first lady of the Hawaii congressional delegation. She was unfailingly kind and always gracious. Above all, she was Sen. Inouye's rock foundation of support, encouragement and loyalty. He has our deepest sympathy," U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie said.

"I am saddened to learn of the passing of Mrs. Inouye. As the wife of our senior senator, Mrs. Inouye played a prominent role both publicly and behind the scenes in representing Hawaii in our nation's capitol. I wish to extend my condolences and prayers to Senator Inouye, their son Daniel, and the entire family," Gov. Linda Lingle said.

Maggie Inouye is survived by her husband; son, Daniel K. Inouye Jr.; and five sisters.

Funeral arrangements are pending.