Presidents, first ladies and many others who knew Barbara Bush are praising her devotion to the nation, her family and literacy.
President Donald Trump said among Mrs. Bush鈥檚 greatest achievements 鈥渨as 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.鈥
Former President Barack Obama said he and former first lady Michelle Obama will 鈥渁lways be grateful to Mrs. Bush for the generosity she showed to us throughout our time in the White House, but we鈥檙e even more grateful for the way she lived her life 鈥 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.鈥
Mrs. Bush died Tuesday at age 92, family spokesman Jim McGrath said. She had decided to decline further medical treatment for health problems and focus instead on 鈥渃omfort care鈥 at home in Houston.
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A funeral is planned Saturday at St. Martin鈥檚 Episcopal Church in Houston, which Mrs. Bush and her husband, former President George H.W. Bush, regularly attended. Mrs. Bush will lie in repose Friday at the church for members of the public who want to pay respects. Saturday鈥檚 service will be by invitation only, according to the George Bush Presidential Library Foundation.
Former President Jimmy Carter and former first lady Rosalynn Carter called Mrs. Bush the 鈥渕atriarch of a family dedicated to serving, she urged volunteerism as a way for all citizens to participate in our nation鈥檚 progress.鈥
George H.W. Bush was at his wife鈥檚 side when she died and had held her hand all day Tuesday, according to Jean Becker, chief of staff at the former president鈥檚 office in Houston.
Their son, former President George W. Bush, said his family鈥檚 鈥渟ouls are settled because we know hers was.鈥
鈥淏arbara Bush was a fabulous First Lady and a woman unlike any other who brought levity, love, and literacy to millions,鈥 he said. 鈥淭o us, she was so much more.鈥
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Wallace reported from Dallas.
Michael Graczyk And Terry Wallace, The Associated Press
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