Final Days: George H.W. Bush by Barbara's Side
As we bid farewell to Barbara Bush, the former First Lady who passed away on April 17, 2018, we take a closer look at how she spent her final days. At 92 years old, Barbara was surrounded by love, strength, and unwavering support from her family. Her husband, George H.W. Bush, now 93, held her hand throughout the day leading up to her passing. This intimate moment was shared by Jean Becker, George H.W. Bush’s longtime chief-of-staff, who conveyed the deep emotional bond between the couple. Their 73-year marriage was one filled with devotion, and George's presence during Barbara's final hours speaks volumes about their enduring connection.
According to Becker, “He, of course, is broken-hearted to lose his beloved Barbara, his wife of 73 years. He held her hand all day today and was at her side when [she] left this good earth.” These words encapsulate the profound grief and love that George carries in his heart. As the nation mourns the loss of Barbara, it’s comforting to know that George is finding strength in his family and in the memories they shared. Becker continued, “Obviously, this is a very challenging time. But it will not surprise all of you who know and love him, that he also is being stoic and strong, and is being lifted up by his large and supportive family. He is determined to be there for them as well. He appreciates all the well wishes and support.”
Barbara and her husband, George.
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Final Hours: A Life Celebrated
In the hours before her passing, Barbara was actively engaged with those around her. Ambassador C. Boyden Gray, a longtime friend of the Bush family, revealed that Barbara was answering phone calls, showcasing her vibrant spirit even in her final days. “Some of the recent emails indicate she is not quite ready to sign off. She’s answering all of her phone calls herself,” Gray shared. A source close to the Bush family also mentioned to CBS News reporter Jenna Gibson that Barbara was alert and even enjoyed a bourbon during her final hours. “She is alert and was having conversations last night. She was also having a bourbon,” the insider added, painting a picture of Barbara’s strength and humor in the face of adversity.
On April 15, the Bush family announced that Barbara had decided to forgo additional medical treatment after being hospitalized multiple times in recent months. Instead, she chose to focus on comfort care, surrounded by her beloved family. “Following a recent series of hospitalizations, and after consulting her family and doctors, Mrs. Bush, age 92, decided not to seek additional medical treatment and will instead focus on comfort care,” Bush family spokesperson Jim McGrath announced on Twitter. McGrath further described Barbara’s remarkable strength and faith during this challenging time. “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,” he said.
For over a year, Barbara had battled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and congestive heart failure. Most recently, she was hospitalized on March 30 for shortness of breath. Despite her health challenges, Barbara remained at home in Houston, cared for by her loved ones until her passing.
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Family Tributes: Remembering a Beloved Matriarch
Following Barbara’s passing, her family paid heartfelt tributes to the woman who brought so much love and laughter into their lives. “I already miss this force of a woman — the ‘enforcer’ because she was the glue that held our family together. She taught me to use my voice but also to value the opinions of others. She adored her friends and family; her loyalty was unwavering. Humor helps, she often said and it does, Gans, but I will miss your laugh terribly,” Barbara’s granddaughter Jenna Bush Hager wrote on Instagram.
Barbara’s son, George W. Bush, also took to social media to share his fond memories of his late mother. “My family and I are sad, but our souls are settled because we know hers was. Barbara Bush was a fabulous First Lady and a woman unlike any other who brought levity, love, and literacy to millions. To us, she was so much more. Mom kept us on our toes and kept us laughing until the end. I’m a lucky man that Barbara Bush was my mother. Our family will miss her dearly, and we thank you all for your prayers and good wishes,” he wrote.
