The Rev. Billy Graham, a nationally prominent evangelical pastor who died Wednesday morning at his home in North Carolina, had tremendous influence across the country and the world. He was 99 years old.

Graham preached to more than 200 million people in 185 countries through radio, TV, publishing and in-person appearances over seven decades -- including at a rally in Hartford in 1985.

"A lot of the people in my church, a lot of the people in my family received the Gospel message from him at his various crusades and rallies," says the Rev. Nathan Hart, of Stanwich Congregational Church. "And certainly his influence on culture influences me indirectly."

Graham became a counselor to President Harry Truman and almost all of the presidents who followed. He also prayed with artists and athletes.

"I don't think we'll understand the full impact of his legacy until we get to heaven and see all the people who he influenced who are there," Hart says.

Graham had been treated in recent years for cancer, pneumonia and other illnesses.