Sad news: beloved former First Lady Barbara Bush has passed away at the age of 92 at her home in Texas.

It’s a devastating event for our nation, but it’s also one that is not all that surprising, considering Bush’s advanced age and her recently-reported health problems.

Over the past week, the Bush family has prepared the public for the inevitable, releasing statements that their famous matriarch had decided to stop accepting treatments from doctors in favor for a more comfortable, hospice-based medical route.

You see, although the former First Lady had been in the public eye for the greater part of the last presidential election – even helping to campaign alongside her son, the would-be Republican nominee, Jeb Bush – she was quietly succumbing to COPD and heart disease.

But, health problems aside, Barbara Bush will not be remembered for her last days, but rather for her strong, impactful nature that shaped our nation for decades.

The American public was first introduced to this powerful woman when her husband, former President George H.W. Bush, was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives more than 50 years ago. Since then, Barbara has maintained the image of her husband’s “right-hand man,” playing an integral role during his vice presidential years during the Regan administration, and even more so when he was elected president in 1988.

The First Lady was known for her ultra-honest, “tough as nails” approach to her role in the White House. During President George H.W. Bush’s presidential term, she poured her heart into a multitude of causes, including illiteracy awareness and conservation efforts.

In addition to her causes, she was also considered a “favorite” personality amongst foreign heads of state. Barbara was known to use her wry sense of humor and sharp intellect to win over diplomats and important world leaders. This no-frills approach to public service won her plenty of favor over the years; in fact, her approval ratings consistently soared above those of her husband!

Even after President George H.W. Bush’s departure from the White House in 1992, Barbara still remained active in politics. The family moved back to Texas, where she continued to make major impacts with her literacy programs, and once her sons George W. and Jeb were ready to follow in their father’s political career, she was right by their sides on the campaign trails.

And we thought our mom was supportive! Those younger Bush family members sure were lucky to have their powerful momma by their sides!

It’s so sad to see such an influential first lady pass on, but we feel grateful that she was able to leave such an impactful, lasting legacy. To learn even more facts about former First Lady Barbara Bush’s stunning life in politics, be sure to watch the video below. It goes without saying that she will be missed!

We’d love to hear your thoughts on the late Barbara Bush. Do you think that she was an effective first lady? What’s your all-time favorite Barbara Bush quote? Were you ever lucky enough to meet her in person?