Senator Jim Nielsen (R-Tehama) shared his memories of former First Lady Barbara Bush during Thursday's floor session of California State Senate. Known for her straight talk and love of family, Mrs. Bush was memorialized in the California State Senate Journal for “a life of service to others.” Senator Nielsen issued the following statement:

“It was an honor and privilege to have known President and Mrs. Bush. Since our initial meeting, I have come to admire their love of country and of each other.

“Mrs. Bush deeply believed that everyone can and should have an equal opportunity to succeed in life – something that cannot be possible without the ability to read and write. She applied her public position and influence as First Lady to make literacy a priority for our country.

“She pushed boundaries when she held a baby diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in front of the press to help fight the stigma of the disease.

“Most importantly, she will best be remembered for her devotion to her husband and family. President and Mrs. Bush were married for 73 years. She was always by her husband’s side, who held her hand from their first meeting to her last moments on this Earth.”