George Herbert Walker Bush, the forty-first president of the United States, died in Houston Friday night, at age 94. He was the oldest former president in U.S. history; the longest married president in U.S. history; one of only two presidents whose son would go on to become president; and the first president since Martin Van Buren to be elected president while serving as vice president.
Reaction on social media came quickly, with President Donald Trump calling him a “point of light,” referring to the elder Bush’s call to service for Americans.
Statement from President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump on the Passing of Former President George H.W. Bush pic.twitter.com/qxPsp4Ggs7
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 1, 2018
Son George W. Bush released a statement on behalf of his family:
Statement by the 43rd President of the United States, George W. Bush, on the passing of his father this evening at the age 94. pic.twitter.com/oTiDq1cE7h
— Jim McGrath (@jgm41) December 1, 2018
As did former president Barack Obama:
America has lost a patriot and humble servant in George Herbert Walker Bush. While our hearts are heavy today, they are also filled with gratitude. Our thoughts are with the entire Bush family tonight – and all who were inspired by George and Barbara’s example. pic.twitter.com/g9OUPu2pjY
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 1, 2018
Former president Bill Clinton:
Hillary and I mourn the passing of President George H. W. Bush, and give thanks for his great long life of service, love and friendship. I am grateful for every minute I spent with him and will always hold our friendship as one of my life’s greatest gifts. https://t.co/1CYdrIeKmz
— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) December 1, 2018
Former vice president Al Gore:
Here is my statement on the passing of President George H.W. Bush. https://t.co/kGlxGrBsOB pic.twitter.com/rv1MPufx2G
— Al Gore (@algore) December 1, 2018
Texas governor Greg Abbott:
Texas mourns the loss of one of our greatest Presidents. George H.W. Bush was an American hero and icon, he was a friend to all he met, he embodied class and dignity. On behalf of the Lone Star State, Cecilia and I offer our thoughts and prayers to the entire Bush family. pic.twitter.com/C9VzROHvFz
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) December 1, 2018
Bush’s vice president, Dan Quayle:
Fmr. VP Dan Quayle on Pres. George H.W. Bush:
"I have often told my children “If you want a role model in your life — look to President George Herbert Walker Bush. The world mourns the loss of a great American. But, it also celebrates a life well lived." https://t.co/bKH4r5mTvJ pic.twitter.com/v9os4KgeJW
— NBC News (@NBCNews) December 1, 2018
Former U.S. attorney general Eric Holder:
His was a life well led. History will be very kind to an effective, wise and dignified leader. A true public servant and patriot. Rest in peace 41. https://t.co/QeXj7D9iIa
— Eric Holder (@EricHolder) December 1, 2018
Bush’s hometown mayor Sylvester Turner:
My statement on the death of President George H.W. Bush, a great Houstonian, world statesman and friend. https://t.co/gSTRvjdc4k
— Sylvester Turner (@SylvesterTurner) December 1, 2018
U.S. Secretary of State James A. Baker III, who served under Bush:
James A. Baker III on the passing of his best friend: "The legacy of George H.W. Bush will be forever etched in the history of America and the world. It is a lifelong record of selfless patriotic service to our nation." pic.twitter.com/kgCjPTAkUW
— Peter Baker (@peterbakernyt) December 1, 2018
Bush biographer Jon Meacham:
George Herbert Walker Bush, 1924-2018. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may light perpetual shine upon him.
— Jon Meacham (@jmeacham) December 1, 2018
