On May 8, 2025, First Lady Melania Trump hosted a ceremony in the East Room of the White House to unveil a new U.S. Postal Service stamp honoring former First Lady Barbara Bush. The event celebrated Bush’s legacy, highlighting her contributions to literacy, women’s empowerment, and public service.
The commemorative Forever stamp features Barbara Bush’s official 2005 White House portrait, depicting her in a black suit and purple blouse, adorned with her signature triple strand of pearls. The stamp will be available for purchase starting June 10, 2025, coinciding with a dedication ceremony in Kennebunkport, Maine, to mark what would have been Bush’s 100th birthday.
During the ceremony, Melania Trump praised Bush’s “unwavering conviction, dignity, and deep loyalty to her loved ones,” emphasizing her impact on American society. She also noted Bush’s efforts in changing the national conversation on AIDS and her support for gay rights.
Dorothy “Doro” Bush Koch, Barbara Bush’s daughter, delivered an emotional speech, recalling her mother’s strength, quick wit, and commitment to family and literacy. She shared personal anecdotes, including how her parents met and the enduring partnership that followed.
Notably absent from the event were former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush. Their absence was not addressed during the ceremony.
Barbara Bush served as First Lady from 1989 to 1993 and was known for her advocacy in literacy, establishing the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy. She passed away in 2018 at the age of 92.
