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Mainers Pay Tribute To Barbara Bush And Her Passion For Children, Literacy

Robert F. Bukaty
/
Associated Press/file
Avery Garrison, 3, of Scarborough, Maine, examines bracelets worn by former first lady Barbara Bush, Thursday, Aug. 22, 2013, at the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital at Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine.

Mainers are expressing grief over the loss of one of the state’s most famous summer residents. It wasn’t unusual for Maine residents to encounter former first lady Barbara Bush, who spent most summers at the family compound at Walker’s Point in Kennebunkport. And while she was here, she was active in the community, devoting time to local causes, especially those aimed at improving the lives of children.

In a tweet, Gov. Paul LePage said Maine will miss Mrs. Bush. "Mainers hold a special place in our hearts for President and Mrs. Bush,and we will treasure our memories of her time spent in our state."

At Mercy Hospital in Portland, President Charlie Therrien said Mrs. Bush was considered a “special member of our Mercy family. 

“We remember Mrs. Bush for her loyalty and devotion to family, country, friends, and especially those in need,” Therrien said in a statement. “We are blessed and deeply grateful for her decades-long dedication to Gary’s House, Mercy’s hospitality home for the families of loved ones receiving care in area hospitals…She was a true guiding light who made the world a better place for so many.”  

There was a similar reaction at the University of New England, where in 2008 Mrs. Bush played a key role in establishing a partnership with the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library at Texas A&M University and the George and Barbara Bush Center.

“Mrs. Bush’s remarkable life will continue to inspire us,” said UNE President James Herbert in a statement. “With her commitment to her family, her faith, and the causes she held dear, she exemplified the degree to which each of us is capable of making the world a better place.”   

Members of Maine’s congressional delegation are also paying tribute to Mrs. Bush.

“Barbara Bush was a great First Lady, a terrific advocate for literary programs and the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital in Portland, and a strong woman who loved her family, the State of Maine, and our country,” says Sen. Susan Collins, in a statement.

“I first met Mrs. Bush in 1994 when I was running for governor, and she campaigned with me.  Since that time, I have been fortunate to have had her as a friend as well as a stalwart supporter.  Every summer for more than 20 years, I have visited President and Mrs. Bush at their Kennebunkport home. It was always one of the highlights of the year.  I shall miss those delightful visits with her.

In a statement, Sen. Angus King says Mrs. Bush was a “true American,” and praises her commitment to children and to literacy.

“In Maine, many of us were fortunate to spot her as she walked the beach in Kennebunkport over the years, and her connection to our state, her deep concern for the wellbeing of its children, and her unwavering generosity has helped provide care for thousands of children throughout Maine at Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital. With grace and devotion, she proudly served our country and its citizens.”

Second District Rep. Bruce Poliquin also released a statement expressing sadness at Mrs. Bush’s death.  “Thank you for being an inspiration to so many in Maine and across our nation. May you rest in peace. My prayers go out to the entire Bush family tonight.”