ATLANTA -- Here is the statement released Tuesday from Mayor Shirley Franklin's office on the death of the mayor's mother:

Mrs. Ruth Lyons White, the mother of Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, died this morning at Emory Healthcare in Atlanta. Mrs. White was 85 years old, born in Asheville, North Carolina and grew up in Washington, DC. White raised her daughter in Philadelphia where she retired as an educator and moved to Atlanta a few years ago.

Mrs. White is survived by her daughter, Shirley Franklin, two sisters Edna Rodgers and Mildred Veney, three grandchildren, several nieces and other family members.

Because of her lifetime commitment to education, in lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made in her name to the Howard University School of Education, Office of the Dean, 2441 Fourth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059.

Funeral arrangements are not confirmed at this time.