McMaster issues statement following mother’s death

COLUMBIA – Following the death of his mother, South Carolina Attorney General Henry McMaster has postponed what was expected to be a series of events this week announcing his run for Governor.

According to a news release from his campaign, Ida Dargan McMaster, 88, died in her sleep at her home Saturday night.

The campaign says McMaster had planned to make an announcement this week regarding his plans for the 2010 campaign for governor, followed by a tour of the state.

On Sunday, McMaster issued the following statement:

“My mother was an extraordinary woman.  She taught us six boys about love and life, and I will miss her greatly. My mother and father were married for 65 wonderful years. Their devotion to each other, and their sacrificial love of their children and grandchildren, serve to this day as a model for all of us. “My family and I have been blessed beyond measure, and we have never taken our blessings for granted. My father is 95 years old and is still very active and productive. I have decided to postpone all political events scheduled for this week.  At this time, all my father’s children, grandchildren, in-laws and extended family want to be together to remember the remarkable life of a great lady. “I speak for my father and the entire McMaster family in thanking all our friends who are thinking about us and have us in their prayers.”

Funeral services for Mrs. McMaster will be held on Tuesday, August 18 at 4:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church in downtown Columbia.