Patriarch Pavle, the near 20-year head of the Serbian Orthodox Church, died of cardiac arrest on Sunday at the age of 95.

Known for his role in reviving the 7-million member church in the 1990's during the country's post-communist era, the patriarch spent the last two years of his office hospitalized with heart and lung problems.

An official three days of mourning was declared on Monday by the Serbian government, as government buildings flew their flags at half staff.

"The death of Patriarch Pavle is a huge loss for Serbia," said President Boris Tadic in a statement. "There are people who bond entire nations and Pavle was such a person."

Thousands paid their respects to Pavle as he lay in state at Saborna Church in Belgrade with many waiting hours in line just to pass by his coffin.

"He was a walking saint," housewife Marina Jovanovic told the Associated Press. "Serbia will sorely miss him."

The church's Holy Synod is expected to make announcements this week as to when a successor to Pavle will be chosen. According to tradition, at least 40 days must pass after the patriarch's death before a new leader can be elected. Bishop Amfilohije, acting patriarch of the church during Pavle's hospitalization, is favored for the position.