'Grit & Grace, Brains & Beauty.' Here's What Every Living President Said About Barbara Bush
Her commitment to her family, her literacy legacy, and of course, her vivacious attitude.
Politics was put to the side Tuesday night as tributes to the extraordinary life of Barbara Bush poured in. The 92-year-old matriarch of the Bush political dynasty passed away Tuesday, just days after her family announced she was in “failing health” and was seeking comfort care.
Politicians from both sides of the aisle honored Bush’s legacy including all of the living former Presidents and First Ladies.
“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,” former President Bill Clinton tweeted.
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
Former President Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter on Barbara Bush — “She touched the hearts of millions with her warmth, generosity, and keen wit.” https://t.co/FFmtuy5rrK pic.twitter.com/eg7KJSkZEO
— CNBC Now (@CNBCnow) April 18, 2018
President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama called Bush “the rock of a family dedicated to public service.” The Bush family has become synonymous with American politics, with many of her children and grandchildren — including former President George W. Bush and his brother, Jeb Bush — following in the footsteps of her husband, Former President George H.W. Bush.
“We’ll always be grateful to Mrs. Bush for the generosity she showed to us throughout our time in the White House, but we’re even more grateful for the way she lived her life — as a testament to the fact that public service is an important and noble calling; as an example of the humility and decency that reflects the very best of the American spirit,” the Obama’s said in a joint statement. “She’ll be remembered for passing those American values on to her children, her grandchildren, her great-grandchildren — and to the countless citizens whom she and George inspired to become ‘points of light’ in service to others.”
Former President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama on Barbara Bush — “Barbara Bush was the rock of a family dedicated to public service, and our thoughts and prayers are with both Presidents Bush and the entire Bush family tonight.” https://t.co/FFmtuy5rrK pic.twitter.com/MjftWIKY49
— CNBC Now (@CNBCnow) April 18, 2018
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump also highlighted her literacy activism as “an advocate for the American family.”
.@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
“Amongst her greatest achievements was recognizing the importance of 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,” the Trump’s said in a statement.