The country was shocked when former First Lady and mother of former President Barbara Bush, chose to deny further health treatment and enter comfort care, but the country was heartbroken when she passed away on Tuesday, April 17. The world grew to love Bush for her wit and supportive nature that she used throughout her lifetime.

The Bushes were married longer than any presidential couple in history, for 73 years. Bush was also only the second woman in history to be wife and mother of elected presidents. She described her time as First Lady as the “best job in the world.” Her main focus during and since then had been literacy. According to Newsweek, Bush has visited more than 500 literacy programs in libraries, schools, day-care centers, housing projects and shelters within a 10 years span. She also funded the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy. Aside from this, she was a lifelong volunteer in many different areas.

The following is a statement from former President George W. Bush, who was present when she passed:

“My dear mother has passed on at age 92. Laura, Barbara, Jenna, 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.”