The final question at today’s Obama news conference in London went to CBS News’ Chip Reid. When Pres. Obama called on Reid, he said, “My heart goes out to you.”

“Thank you very much Mr. President, I appreciate that, I really do,” said Reid, before asking his question.

TVNewser has learned Reid’s father has passed away. We’ll report more as we get it.

> Update: A note from CBS’ DC bureau chief Christopher Isham, after the jump…

From CBS News Washington Bureau Chief Christopher Isham:

Chip Reid’s father passed away shortly after he arrived in London to cover the president. While Chip at first planned to return home, his mother and wife, Nina, insisted that his father would want him to continue on the President’s historic trip.

In a note to us today he said “My father was my hero and I’m here to make him proud.”

A family memorial is planned once Chip returns home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to:

Charles Henry Reid, Sr. Memorial Fund
Hanover Presbyterian Church
1801 N. Jefferson Street
Wilmington, DE 19802-4709