John Sidgmore Dies Aged 52

ASHBURN, Va. -- John W. Sidgmore, former WorldCom chairman and chief executive officer, passed away today at the age of 52. The following statement should be attributed to the Company:

"We are deeply saddened by John Sidgmore's passing. He was a true Internet visionary, leader and friend who had an uncanny ability of bringing joy into people's lives."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with John's wife Randi and the entire Sidgmore family. We hope that they take comfort in the fact that John had a profound, positive affect on the lives of thousands of our employees. We celebrate John's entrepreneurial spirit that will remain with us going forward."