Rick Scott's Statement on the Passing of his Mother, Esther Scott

Gov. Rick Scott released the following statement on the passing of his mother, Esther Scott, 84, who died Tuesday.

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.

Visitation for friends will be held at Good Shepherd United Methodist -- 9555 N. Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, Mo., 6-8 p.m. on Friday.

A Celebration of Life Services will be held at Good Shepherd at 1:30 p.m. Saturday.

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, also in Kansas City.