Sad news out of the world of politics today, as Barbara Bush – wife of George H.W. Bush and mother of George W. Bush – has passed away at the age of 92.
The office of the elder President Bush confirmed the news in a statment released moments ago:
“A former First Lady of the United States of America and relentless proponent of family literacy, Barbara Pierce Bush passed away Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at the age of 92,” the statment reads.
“She is survived by her husband of 73 years, President George H. W. Bush; five children and their spouses, 17 grandchildren, seven great grandchildren; and her brother Scott Pierce.
“She was preceded in death by her second child, Pauline “Robin” Bush, and her siblings Martha Rafferty and James R. Pierce.”
The statement also indicated that funeral arrangements will be announced “as soon as is practical.”
Bush’s death comes just days after it was revealed that she will no longer seek medical treatment following her latest round of health issues.
“Following a recent series of hospitalizations, and after consulting her family and doctors, Mrs. Bush, now age 92, has decided not to seek additional medical treatment and will instead focus on comfort care,” read a statement released by one of the former first lady’s representatives.
“It will not surprise those who know her that Barbara Bush has been a rock in the face of her failing health, worrying not for herself — thanks to her abiding faith — but for others.
“She is surrounded by a family she adores, and appreciates the many kind messages and especially the prayers she is receiving.”
Many Americans first became familiar with Barbara Bush during her husband’s tenure as vice president under President Ronald Reagan from 1981 to 1989.
The New York native then served as first lady from 1989 through 1993.
During her husband’s time in the White House, Bush founded the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy.
Bush’s eldest son, George W. Bush served as president from 2001 to 2009.
Her third child, Jeb Bush, was the 43rd governor of Florida and a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination in 2016.
She is survived by five children, 14 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.
