Mrs Schiavo's case divided US public opinion

Today, millions of Americans are saddened by the death of Terri Schiavo. The essence of civilization is that the strong have a duty to protect the weak. In cases where there are serious doubts and questions, the presumption should be in favour of life.

President George W Bush

Terri's will to live should serve as an inspiration and impetus for action.

House Judiciary Chairman James Sensenbrenner

Mr Schiavo's overriding concern was [that] Mrs Schiavo has a right and had a right to die with dignity. And die in peace. She had a right to have her last and final moments on this earth be experienced by a spirit of love and not of acrimony.

George Felos, lawyer for Michael Schiavo, Terri's husband

David Gibbs III, a lawyer for Terri Schiavo's parents

Mike's very upset. My sister's crying. It's very emotional. It's been a long, hard fight, but I believe she's happy. Terri's probably happy now to be free and not be shown all over TV. I would imagine if it was me I'd be very embarrassed, everybody looking at my picture lying there.

John Centonze, brother of Jody Centonze, Michael Schiavo's fiancee

I'm saddened by her passing, and I'm pained by it. It's unnecessary, in the end. She was starved and dehydrated to death. To me, it was merciless rather than merciful.

Rev Jesse Jackson, who supported the Schindlers

This is not only a death with all the sadness that brings, this is a killing. And for that we not only grieve that Terri has passed but we grieve that our nation has allowed such an atrocity as this and we pray that it will never happen again.

Frank Pavone, director of Priests for Life

She's got all of her dignity back. She's now in heaven, she's now with God, and she's walking with grace.

Scott Schiavo, Michael Schiavo's brother

It's heart-breaking. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family. To all the people that wanted her to live, this was a very, very emotional couple of weeks. This issue transcends politics. Her experience will heighten awareness of the importance of families dealing with end of life issues. That's an incredible legacy. I wish I could have done more. As governor, this has been the toughest [issue I have had to deal with].

Florida Governor Jeb Bush

In doubt, be for life and avoid what in practice and without euphemisms would represent a murder, to which it is impossible to be a passive observer without becoming an accomplice.

Vatican Cardinal Renato Martino