Politicians and leaders across the U.S. mourned the death of former President George Herbert Walker Bush, late Friday night as the Bush family celebrated Bush senior’s life.

Bush’s eldest son, former President George W. Bush, issued a statement shortly after the announcement of his death.

“George H.W. Bush was a man of the highest character and the best dad a son or daughter could ask for,” he wrote. “The entire Bush family is deeply grateful for 41′s life and love, for the compassion of those who have cared and prayed for Dad, and for the condolences of our friends and fellow citizens.”

Statement by the 43rd President of the United States, George W. Bush, on the passing of his father this evening at the age 94. pic.twitter.com/oTiDq1cE7h — Jim McGrath (@jgm41) December 1, 2018

Bush’s grandsons highlighted the 41st president’s service to the military and the country, while Trump administration officials wrote heartfelt messages to the Bush family.

“Nothing gave my Gampy more joy than service to others, especially supporting and caring for those who risk making the ultimate sacrifice everyday,” Jeb Bush Jr. tweeted, along with a photo of his grandfather.

“His leadership taught us to be kinder and gentler, to love each other,” he continued. “We will miss him dearly.”

Nothing gave my Gampy more joy than service to others, especially supporting and caring for those who risk making the ultimate sacrifice everyday. His leadership taught us to be kinder and gentler, to love each other. We will miss him dearly. pic.twitter.com/i2iR5U3ikc — Jeb Bush, Jr. (@JebBushJr) December 1, 2018

Republican political figures responded swiftly to the news, sending the Bush family condolences through Twitter.

Former Vice President Dan Quayle, who served alongside former President George H. W. Bush, called his old friend a “role model” and a “completely genuine, decent and honorable person.”

“As so many Americans did, I had true affection for the man George Bush,” he said in a statement.

“He went into and out of the office as absolutely the same man. I think that exemplifies his character,” Quayle continued. “I have often told my children, ’If you want a role model in your life ― look to President George Herbert Walker Bush.”

Fmr. VP Dan Quayle on Pres. George H.W. Bush:



"I have often told my children “If you want a role model in your life — look to President George Herbert Walker Bush. The world mourns the loss of a great American. But, it also celebrates a life well lived." https://t.co/bKH4r5mTvJ pic.twitter.com/v9os4KgeJW — NBC News (@NBCNews) December 1, 2018

“What a life... full of love of family... strong faith,” former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin tweeted. “Nothing’s more important.”

President Donald Trump’s White House adviser Kellyanne Conway thanked Bush for his service.

“Heartfelt sympathy and deep condolences to the entire Bush family,” Conway wrote. “He devoted his life to his family and his country. Thank you, sir.”

What a life... full of love of family... strong faith... nothing’s more important. God bless the Bush family at this sad time. — Sarah Palin (@SarahPalinUSA) December 1, 2018

Heartfelt sympathy and deep condolences to the entire Bush family on the passing of our 41st President, George H. W. Bush. He devoted his life to his family and his country. Thank you, sir. https://t.co/qHvXcsSlmw — Kellyanne Conway (@KellyannePolls) December 1, 2018

Below, see how Bush’s family, friends and colleagues reacted to former President George H. W. Bush’s death.

My grandfather was the greatest man I ever knew. His life spanned the American Century—he fought in World War II ... took part in the Texas oil boom ... served out a distinguished career in public service including serving as president during the final days of the Cold War. pic.twitter.com/6i68EPVC3j — George P. Bush (@georgepbush) December 1, 2018

George H.W. Bush: patriot, public servant, and President of the United States.



Rest in Peace, 41. pic.twitter.com/lU0I3MXR6V — GOP (@GOP) December 1, 2018

Statement by President Nixon's daughters Tricia Nixon Cox and Julie Nixon Eisenhower on the passing of President George H.W. Bush. pic.twitter.com/Rod7fPrGhW — Nixon Foundation (@nixonfoundation) December 1, 2018

President Bush has left us for one last flight but his destination isn't unknown. He's flying into the arms of the love of his life, Barbara. This evening, each of us should take a minute to look up and offer him a silent thanks. FULL STATEMENT: https://t.co/XbuFYztrmg — Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) December 1, 2018

Naval Aviation mourns the passing of our 41st President, George H.W. Bush, a Naval Aviator, statesman, and humble public servant. His legacy lives on in those who don the cloth of our great nation and in the mighty warship which bears his name, @CVN77_GHWB. May he Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/0COuk6veDV — flynavy (@flynavy) December 1, 2018

Rest in Peace



41st President, George H.W. Bush and WWII veteran, passed at 94, Nov. 30.



His time and legacy in office and to our country will not be forgotten. Our deepest condolences to the Bush Family. https://t.co/3HZRkPFspC — U.S. Army (@USArmy) December 1, 2018