George HW Bush
George HW BushReuters

The 41st President of the United States, George Herbert Walker Bush, died on Friday in Houston.

He was 94 when he died.

Bush ended his term as President in 1993. In recent months, his medical condition had deteriorated and he had been hospitalized frequently.

Seven months ago, his wife Barbara passed away.

He leaves behind five children, including former US President George W. Bush.

In a statement announcing his father's death which was published by CNBC, George W. Bush said, "George H. W. Bush was a man of the highest character and the best dad a son or daughter could ask for."

"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."

Current President Donald Trump issued a statement shortly after the announcement of Bush's death.

“Melania and I join with a grieving nation to mourn the loss of former President George HW Bush, who passed away last night.

“Through his essential authenticity, disarming wit, and unwavering commitment to faith, family, and country, President Bush inspired generations of his fellow Americans to public service — to be, in his words, ‘a thousand points of light’ illuminating the greatness, hope, and opportunity of America to the world.”

Bush "guided our nation, and the world, to a peaceful and victorious conclusion of the Cold War. As president, he set the stage for the decades of prosperity that have followed," Trump said.

“Along with his full life of service to country, we will remember President Bush for his devotion to family – especially the love of his life, Barbara. His example lives on, and will continue to stir future Americans to pursue a greater cause. Our hearts ache with his loss, and we, with the American people, send our prayers to the entire Bush family, as we honor the life and legacy of 41.”

Former US President Barack Obama also issued a statement, saying that America had “lost a patriot and humble servant," and that Bush's "legacy of service [...] may never be matched, even though he’d want all of us to try."

“After 73 years of marriage, George and Barbara Bush are together again now, two points of light that never dimmed, two points of light that ignited countless others with their example … Our thoughts are with the entire Bush family tonight – and all who were inspired by George and Barbara’s example.”