Barbara And George Bush Reveal The Details Of Their Love Story

Touching tributes are pouring in as the country grieves the loss of First Lady Barbara Bush. She was a woman who was devoted to her country and her family. She had a sharp wit that she wasn’t afraid to use on anyone. Most importantly, Barbara Bush was the focal point of her family and her love for her husband shined through until the end.

Barbara and George Bush’s romance spanned 73 years of marriage. They met as teenagers at a dance. They were both immediately smitten. 18-year-old George was a naval aviator. He asked a friend if he knew the girl at the other end of the room. That girl was 16-year-old Barbara Pierce.

The band began a playing a waltz. This gave them the opportunity to chat. “Since I didn’t waltz, we sat the dance out,” President George H. W. Bush wrote in his autobiography. “And several more after that, talking and getting to know each other. It was a storybook meeting.”

The couple got engaged in 1943. While George was at war, he had Barbara’s name put on his plane. They were married in 1945 after the future President was shot down over the Pacific Ocean.

Barbara Bush (1925-2018) and George Bush at their wedding, 1945: pic.twitter.com/VvooYcbTNj

— Michael Beschloss (@BeschlossDC) April 17, 2018

Barbara said she and George are “the two luckiest people in the world, and when all the dust is settled and all the crowds are gone, the things that matter are faith, family, and friends. We have been inordinately blessed, and we know that.”

Barbara was married to one President and gave birth to another. Her grandson, Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush, credits much of the family’s success to Barbara.

My grandmother's entire life was focused on others. For my grandfather, she was his top adviser and confidante. For her family, she was a steady, loving and guiding hand. And for her country, she was an inspiration and an example for all. 1/2

— George P. Bush (@georgepbush) April 17, 2018

My grandmother didn't just live life; she lived it well. And the sorrow of her loss is softened by the knowledge of her impact on our family and our country. I will miss you, Ganny—but know we will see you again. 2/2

— George P. Bush (@georgepbush) April 17, 2018

Barbara Bush did not fear death. Her faith in God was strong. On her last day of life, the former First Lady was surrounded by family members and even sipped on bourbon. We should all be so blessed to bid farewell in this manner.

In a 1999 letter to Barbara, George wrote, “You have given me joy that few men know. I have climbed perhaps the highest mountain in the world, but even that cannot hold a candle to being Barbara’s husband.”

A video of the Bushes discussing their love letters in an interview with their granddaughter Jenna Bush Hager is in the tweet below.

The love between George H.W. and Barbara Bush was one for the ages. Watch them share their love letters on TODAY in 2011. pic.twitter.com/mqko7VRH6s

— TODAY (@TODAYshow) April 18, 2018

The Bushes love for one another held firm over many decades. Even while climbing the political ladder, the Bushes kept their focus on their marriage, like many members of the Greatest Generation.

Tributes are pouring in from all over the world, but the remarks from her children and grandchildren are the most touching as they express how fortunate they were to be related to such an amazing woman.

Statement by President George W. Bush on the passing of Mrs. Barbara Bush: https://t.co/PwYs9SHwo3 pic.twitter.com/FZMcRwv0Ve

— George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) April 18, 2018

President Bush is now left without his bride of 73 years. He will obviously look forward to being reunited with his soulmate in Heaven. Until then, his family will stand by his side.