WASHINGTON, May 9, 2025 — The U.S. Postal Service released a special Forever stamp to celebrate the 100th birthday of former first lady Barbara Bush at a White House event on Thursday. The stamp pays tribute to her dedication to promoting literacy and her role as a beloved family member.
During the ceremony, First Lady Melania Trump, Barbara Bush’s daughter Dorothy “Doro” Bush Koch, Alice Yates from the George & Barbara Bush Foundation, and Judy de Torok from the Postal Service revealed the artwork for the stamp. The official dedication is scheduled for June 10 at Ganny’s Garden in Kennebunkport, Maine, coinciding with Bush’s birth centennial.
Acting postmaster general of the Postal Service, Doug Tulino, praised Mrs. Bush’s legacy, saying, “Today we honor Mrs. Bush not just as a former first lady, but as an extraordinary American in her own way. She created a lasting impact with her determination, compassion, and strong beliefs.”
Bush Koch spoke on behalf of the family, highlighting her mother’s commitment to literacy. “We are truly grateful that the U.S. Postal Service is recognizing our mother with a special Forever stamp,” she said. “This stamp serves as a beautiful reminder of Barbara Bush’s enduring love for her family and friends, her sharp humor, and her unwavering dedication to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to read, write, and understand.”
Barbara Pierce Bush (1925-2018), wife of George H.W. Bush, the 41st president, and mother of George W. Bush, the 43rd president, was born in New York City and grew up in Rye, New York. She met her future husband at a Christmas dance when she was just 16, and they tied the knot on January 6, 1945. The couple had six children: George W., Robin, Jeb, Neil, Marvin, and Dorothy. The loss of their daughter Robin at age 3 due to leukemia deeply affected the family.
The Bush family relocated nearly 30 times as George H.W. Bush pursued various roles in the military, business, and politics. Barbara Bush supported her husband throughout his career, starting in 1962 when he ran for chairman of the Harris County, Texas, Republican Party. As the second lady from 1981 to 1989, inspired by her son Neil’s dyslexia, she became a literacy advocate, even writing a book titled “C. Fred’s Story” in 1984 to support literacy programs.
Her advocacy for literacy continued during her time as the first lady, solidifying her legacy. The stamp, featuring a detail from her 2005 White House portrait, is part of the White House Collection and will be available in panes of 20. The presale for the stamp begins on May 10, and updates can be found using the hashtag #BarbaraBushStamp.
The unveiling of the stamp underscores Barbara Bush’s enduring impact as a public figure who balanced family life with her commitment to public service. Her efforts to promote literacy addressed educational challenges and left a lasting impression on communities across the country. The June dedication will conclude a year-long celebration honoring her centennial and recognizing her contributions to American society.
David M. Higgins II is a journalist who loves uncovering the truth and sharing compelling stories. He was born in Baltimore and raised in Southern Maryland, living in various East Coast locations.
