Amid news of her failing health, former first lady Barbara Bush died at her Texas home on Tuesday, April 17. She was 92.
Bush had recently been battling congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and she declined further medical treatment. According to her husband, former president George H.W. Bush, Barbara died while “surrounded by a family she adores.”
The statement continued, “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.”
Barbara Bush served as first lady from 1989-1993. She is also the mother of the 43rd president of the United States, George W. Bush.