Barbara Bush: Presidents, politicians and media figures remember former First Lady
Prominent political figures and media personalities paid tribute to former First Lady Barbara Bush following her death on Tuesday, including her own family.
“My dear mother has passed on at age 92,” former president George W. Bush said in a statement. “Laura, Barbara, Jenna and I are sad, but our souls are settled because we know hers was … Mom kept us on our toes and kept us laughing until the end. I’m a lucky man that Barbara Bush was my mother.”
“My grandmother didn’t just live life; she lived it well,” wrote George P. Bush, son of former Florida governor Jeb Bush. “And the sorrow of her loss is softened by the knowledge of her impact on our family and our country. I will miss you, Ganny–but know we will see you again.”
Also Read: Barbara Bush, Former First Lady, Dies at 92
“Barbara Bush was the rock of a family dedicated to public service … We’ll always be grateful to Mrs. Bush for the generosity she showed to us throughout our time in the White House,” former president Barack Obama said in a statement.
Barbara Bush, wife of George H.W. Bush and first lady of the United States from 1989-1993, had suffered COPD and congestive heart failure in recent years, leading to the announcement on Sunday that she had chosen to “focus on comfort care” and would not seek further medical treatment.
In a joint statement, president Donald Trump and wife Melania hailed Bush’s many achievements, highlighting her work to promote literacy as “a fundamental family value that requires nurturing and protection.”
“She will be long remembered for her strong devotion to country and family, both of which she served unfailingly well,” they continued.
Read more reactions to the former first lady’s death below:
Statement by President George W. Bush on the passing of Mrs. Barbara Bush: https://t.co/PwYs9SHwo3 pic.twitter.com/FZMcRwv0Ve
— George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) April 18, 2018
Our statement on the passing of Former First Lady Barbara Bush: pic.twitter.com/MhTVYCL9Nj
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) April 18, 2018
Thinking about Barbara Bush’s legacy of service to our country and the extraordinary family she raised. Thanking her for her many kindnesses to me and my family. Wishing her the comfort she deserves surrounded by her loved ones.
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) April 16, 2018
.@FLOTUS Melania and I join the Nation in celebrating the life of Barbara Bush: pic.twitter.com/4NzyjxqAFM
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 18, 2018
My grandmother's entire life was focused on others. For my grandfather, she was his top adviser and confidante. For her family, she was a steady, loving and guiding hand. And for her country, she was an inspiration and an example for all. 1/2
— George P. Bush (@georgepbush) April 17, 2018
My grandmother didn't just live life; she lived it well. And the sorrow of her loss is softened by the knowledge of her impact on our family and our country. I will miss you, Ganny—but know we will see you again. 2/2
— George P. Bush (@georgepbush) April 17, 2018
Barbara Bush was the gracious matriarch of one of America’s true political dynasties. Mrs. Bush was a force in the family that shaped two presidents and two governors. God’s Blessings & GodSpeed & RIP
— Steve King (@SteveKingIA) April 17, 2018
Barbara Bush matriarch of a great, patriotic family, dies at 92. Historical women.
— Bill O'Reilly (@BillOReilly) April 18, 2018
Barbara raised a family of service & character, stood by her beloved husband in the best & worst of times, and spoke her convictions with courage & passion. The great First Lady of our times. Ann and I will profoundly miss her friendship, her compassion, & the twinkle of her eye.
— Mitt Romney (@MittRomney) April 17, 2018
Devoted mother, loving wife, beloved leader. Barbara Bush was a woman of unique American grace and integrity. She was devoted to the nation, and we loved her in return. We grieve for the Bush family and offer our prayers and condolences.
— Ed Markey (@SenMarkey) April 18, 2018
Barbara Bush served her country with class. She served her family with love and compassion. I’m grateful I knew her. And as an American, I'm grateful for her service. My heart goes out to her husband, children, great-grandchildren and the entire crew. A life beautifully lived. pic.twitter.com/WUuQgo8iBF
— Maria Shriver (@mariashriver) April 17, 2018
Chrissy and I are saddened by the loss of Barbara Bush. She transcended partisan politics and dedicated her life to this country. Condolences to the entire Bush family.
— Mike Levin (@MikeLevinCA) April 17, 2018
Former first lady Barbara Bush has passed away at the age of 92. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jenna and the entire Bush family. ???? pic.twitter.com/ZiKfM1ihCa
— Kathie Lee and Hoda (@klgandhoda) April 17, 2018
Bill and Hillary Clinton statement on Barbara Bush recalls how close George HW and Bill Clinton had become during their post-presidencies. pic.twitter.com/0ZntAPEf1J
— Jim Acosta (@Acosta) April 18, 2018
With compassion and grace, Barbara Bush inspired generations of Americans. My deepest condolences go to President George H.W. Bush and her entire family.
— Rep. Joe Kennedy III (@RepJoeKennedy) April 18, 2018
America lost a great woman, a great mother and a great wife. Barbara Bush’s life has always been a shining example of how a woman can be both loving and tough. I was honored to spend a few moments in her presence.
— Mika Brzezinski (@morningmika) April 17, 2018
Barbara Bush was a remarkable woman. She had grit & grace, brains & beauty. She was fierce & feisty in support of her family & friends, her country & her causes. She showed us what an honest, vibrant, full life looks like. Hillary and I mourn her passing and bless her memory.
— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) April 17, 2018
A wonderful, strong, funny and amazing human being. All my prayers to Barbara Bush and her family tonight. https://t.co/7fnwzNKS6i
— Sean Hannity (@seanhannity) April 18, 2018
Barbara Bush holds a revered place in the hearts of generations of Americans. She so loved her family and our country. She led both with clarity and character. To Mrs. Bush’s family, I extend the deepest condolences of the whole House. May she rest in eternal peace. pic.twitter.com/Jy7zifU7gK
— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) April 18, 2018
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