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Barbara Bush Obituary
died unexpectedly at her Tempe home on July 11th. She was born April 17, 1948, in Port Huron, MI. Her parents Edward and Mayme C. VerHultz Bush were educators, as was her brother Greg, now retired. Barbara earned bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Michigan before moving to Tempe in the early 1970s.
Barbara followed the family tradition after working in retail (Kmart and Target), becoming a special needs instructional aide with the Tempe Elementary School District (Hudson Elementary; Fees and Gililland Middle Schools). After two decades she retired in 2020.
Barbara's environmental advocacy included serving as Executive Director of Arizonans for a Better Environment and co-founder of the Coalition for Responsible Energy Education. She also was an animal rescuer and active in world hunger, peace and refugee issues. A voracious reader, Barbara was an avid birder with Myron Scott, her husband of over three decades. Many who knew her have praised her kindness.
Barbara is survived by her husband, brother and niece and nephew Julie and Doug Bush. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 5th, at 11 AM at University Lutheran Church, 340 E. 15th St., Tempe. Remembrance donations are encouraged to the Arizona Animal Welfare League (aawl.org).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Bush
Sharon K Smith
July 15, 2023
Barb and I were close friends during Jr. High and High School. We lived across the street from one another. She was a wonderful person and a great friend. We had many good times and much laughter in those wonderful days. Thanks for the memories. Rest in Peace.
David Chorlton
September 22, 2021
I may have spent little time around Barbara but it was enough to recognize her kindness and dedication to improving the world for people and animals alike. She joined Myron in difficult struggles and has my admiration for keeping her smile throughout the work.
Mary M McCracken
August 4, 2021
She touched thousands of young people. What a beautiful legacy.
Siobhan Sullivan
August 3, 2021
Barb was an aide in my self contained classroom for 2 years. She was an amazing person and educator. Barb will be remembered by every person and student she met.
Jh
July 30, 2021
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
G
July 30, 2021
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Penny Scott
July 26, 2021
Barbara always had a smile even if she disagreed with a decision. Always looked on the bright side. I worked with her for about 12 years at the little Tempe Target. We zoned, cashiered and guest service. Barbara you were a genuine joy to work with. RIP
Myron Scott
July 26, 2021
My beloved spouse Barbara Bush died at home in her sleep Sunday morning 7/11/2021. It was unexpected. She had struggled bravely with medical problems for over a year and seemed finally to be fully recovering but died of an apparent heart attack. Some will know her as a dedicated teacher and caregiver for special needs children. Some will know her as stalwart environmental activist and social justice supporter. Some simply as a remarkably kind person. She also was a friend and nourisher of all creatures (except cockroaches), a beloved sister and aunt, and, to me, a miraculous blessing.
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How to support Barbara's loved ones
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Barbara Bush's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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