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National, state leaders react to passing of former President George H.W. Bush

Posted at 10:38 AM, Dec 01, 2018
and last updated 2018-12-01 16:48:46-05

Former President George H.W. Bush died at the age of 94 on Friday, Nov. 30

Bush, who served as the 41st president from 1989 to 1993, was a World War II hero and had served as a Texas congressman, CIA director and vice president for President Ronald Reagan. 

Former First Lady Barbara Bush had died in April at the age of 92. 

In the wake of the death of Bush, President Donald Trump (45) announced the designation of Dec. 5 as a National Day of Mourning. 

Former presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Jimmy Carter also released statements following Bush's passing.

Former President George W. Bush (43), one of Bush's sons, released a statement early Saturday on the passing of his beloved father: 

Secretary of Defense James Mattis released this statement: 

President George Herbert Walker Bush, naval aviator, decorated in his youth for valor in combat, took his experience in war to build a better world as our commander in chief. His service to our nation demonstrated how we as a people can draw on our humility, diversity and devotion to our country to meet every challenge with fortitude and confidence. We will miss him, but at the going down of the day, his example will long guide our Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen and Marines for how to live life without regret.

Texas politicians joined the world in mourning Bush, including Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), who released a statement Saturday morning: 

America has lost a great servant, and I have lost a great friend. George H.W. Bush epitomized everything wonderful about America, and like his country, he was tough, strong, and kind. He changed this nation and he changed the world. Those who knew President Bush knew that his love for his country was only surpassed by his love for his family. This is an immeasurable loss for America, but I am comforted knowing that he has been reunited with his beloved, Barbara Bush, and is now with the Lord. My family and I will continue praying for the entire Bush family during this difficult time.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick released this statement: 

Jan and I express our deepest condolences to the Bush family on the passing of our former President,  George H. W. Bush. President Bush was a great Texan whose life and work exemplify public service and love for his country. His lasting legacy will inspire Americans for generations to come.

Senator John Cornyn released this statement Saturday: 

Today the nation mourns the loss of a great patriarch who served this country as a war hero, Congressman, CIA Director, Vice President, and President. Just as important, he will be missed by his family as a caring husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. A truly honorable and gracious man has gone home to God. Having adopted the state of Texas as his home as a young adult, we Texans were privileged to have him as one of our own. President Bush once said, ‘I am a Texan and an American…what more could a man ask?’ I don’t think anyone could have said it better. 

Bush is survived by his sons, George W., Jeb, Neil, Marvin, his daughter Dorothy Bush Koch and 17 grandchildren. 

Bush will be buried next to his wife at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Center in College Station. 

According to CNN, Bush will lie in state at the US Capitol before a memorial service in Washington DC and then one in Houston. 

Bush will be laid to rest on Thursday, Dec. 6 on the grounds of his presidential library and museum.

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