Barbara Bush, one of the most beloved first ladies of the United States, died yesterday while reportedly holding the hand of her husband of 73 years, former President George H. W. Bush.
The remarkable woman, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and philanthropist was 92-years-old.
A fierce supporter of her large family, Barbara Bush also held many issues close to her heart including advocating for literacy and her love of animals, especially for her beloved dogs.
Millie, a springer spaniel, was among the cherished members of the Bush family as were her litter of puppies.
Barbara’s love for her dog inspired the creation of The Millie Bush Bark Park in 2003. Located in Houston, it has long been revered as the best leash-free dog park in Texas.
Bush is also remembered as the first lady who refused to wear the fur coat she was offered for her husband’s inauguration.
Instead, she smiled and waved at the PETA members holding “No Fur!” signs outside of the inauguration.
Barbara Bush “leaves a legacy of compassion for animals that has been followed by Michelle Obama, Melania Trump, and other fur-free first ladies around the world,” PETA President Ingrid Newkirk said in a statement.
An outpouring of admiration toward the former first lady flooded social media yesterday with President Donald Trump tweeting that he and Melania “join the Nation in celebrating the life of Barbara Bush.
Former President Barack Obama also released a statement that he and former first lady Michelle Obama will “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.”
