UPDATED -- In answer to many questions and messages of condolences, Gov. Rick Scott replied to Floridians in a written release Wednesday on the death of his mother, Esther Scott, 84, in her hometown of Kansas City, Mo. on Tuesday. The governor's mother, who had been a visible part of her son's 2010 gubernatorial campaign, had been hospitalized since last month.

The statement read as follows:

“My mom, Esther, was one of the only constants in my life. We moved many times and my parents struggled financially, but mom always made sure we went to school and we went to church. Those were not optional.

"My mom taught me that there is no limit to what you can accomplish if you put a lot of hard work behind your dreams. She was gracious and kind, and later in life, she was always up for another adventure. She wanted to keep traveling and see the world as much as she could.

"I am grateful to have had such an inspirational and loving mother who was a real example of living the American Dream. While she is already deeply missed by our family, she lives on in our hearts forever.

"Ann and I thank all of you who have sent your prayers, well wishes and encouragement for our family during this time of loss.”

A visitation of friends is set from 6 – 8 p.m. CST on Friday, Nov. 16. The Celebration of Life services will be at 1:30 p.m. CST Saturday, Nov. 17. Both services will be at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 9555 N. Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, Mo. Graveside services will follow at Mount Moriah Terrace Park on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Vistas Hospice Care, Research Hospital of Kansas City, Mo. or Good Shepherd United Methodist Church.

Esther Scott had been battling an infection in a hospital in Kansas City, where she had raised her five children.

The governor broke from his schedule in late October to be by her side for a few days while she was in the intensive care unit.

Esther Scott, who helped manage doughnut shops Rick Scott purchased after leaving the U.S. Navy, was a prominent feature of Scott's gubernatorial run in 2010, appearing at rallies and in campaign ads calling him a “good boy.”

In an Oct. 30, 2010, article with NorthEscambia.com, Esther admitted being surprised when Rick Scott, her second oldest child, told her of his plans to run for office.

“I told him to just be sure to hear what the people say, and not take money from people who would want favors in return. That’s what crooked politicians do,” she said.

“He is going to make the best governor that Florida has ever had,” she said. “He will do the best that he can for this state, and keep every promise or die trying.”


Reach Jim Turner at jturner@sunshinestatenews or at (772) 215-9889.