April 17, 2018
Former First Lady Barbara Bush Dies at 92
Getty
Former First Lady Barbara Bush, wife of President George H.W. Bush, has died. She was 92.
The former President's office confirmed the news, stating, “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 news comes after Mrs. Bush announced she would not be seeking further medical care after a series of hospitalizations. Instead, she planned to “focus on comfort care.”
People magazine reports Bush was last hospitalized in January 2017 for bronchitis.
The First Lady is survived by her husband of 73 years, five children — including former President George W. Bush — and their spouses; 17 grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren.
A daughter, Pauline Robinson “Robin” Bush, died of leukemia at age 3 in 1953.
The White House released a statement celebrating Bush's life, saying she would long be remembered for her "devotion to country and family."
Former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama shared their condolences and praised Bush's dedication to public service.
Speaker of the House Paul Ryan also tweeted a statement, saying she "led both with clarity and character."
Jenna Bush Hager opened up about her grandmother on the "Today" show on Monday, saying that she had spoken with her on Sunday.
“She is in great spirits and she's a fighter. She's an enforcer,” she said. “We're grateful for her, for everybody's prayers and thoughts, and just know the world is better because she's in it.”
