Flo Bjelke-Petersen, the wife of the long-serving Queensland premier Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen, has died aged 97.

Flo Bjelke-Petersen, who was also a National party senator from 1981 to 1993, died at an aged care facility in Kingaroy on Wednesday afternoon after a short illness.

Operator Lutheran Services confirmed the news, saying she was surrounded by family and loved ones, including her sister Margaret Gilmour.

“We safely entrust her into the hands of our lord and saviour Jesus Christ,” it said.

Lutheran Services said Flo Bjelke-Petersen would be missed by staff and residents at the Orana Aged Care Service, where she had lived since August 2014.

“She will be sorely missed by her family, many across Queensland and beyond,” it said.

The state Liberal National leader, Deb Frecklington, tweeted “rest in peace Lady Flo” upon hearing the news.

“You were a rock of our community and will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered,” she said. “I will always cherish your support and guidance.”

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.