Former Nebraska Secretary of State Allen Beermann has fond memories of Barbara Bush.
"I remember Barbara Bush for her gracious dignity ... when she entered the room, everyone felt better, felt uplifted and felt her presence. She was so kind, so caring and sharing and so matriarchal," Beermann said Tuesday night. The former first lady died Tuesday at age 92.
Beermann, who was secretary of state for 24 years and has been the executive director of the Nebraska Press Association since 1995, became friends with Bush during his years in office.
"The former first lady instantly made all ladies in the room feel like first ladies ... it was always about them, not her. She had a touchmark that always added value to life and living."
Other Nebraska elected officials offered their condolences.
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“With first lady Barbara Bush’s passing, America has lost an icon who will be remembered for her grace, her dignity, and her work championing literacy," Gov. Pete Ricketts said in a statement. "She leaves behind a remarkable legacy in her family and their public service. Susanne and I send our prayers to the entire Bush family as they celebrate her life and grieve her passing.â€
From Sen. Deb Fischer: “Barbara Bush was the rock of her family. It’s nothing short of extraordinary to be a first lady and the mother of another U.S. president. Through it all, Mrs. Bush was strong, poised, and fiercely loyal. She touched many lives through her devotion to improving literacy in America. Her wisdom, wit, and honesty will be missed. Bruce and I send our sincerest condolences to the Bush family.â€
And this from Sen. Ben Sasse: “Barbara Bush lived an extraordinary life of devotion, love, and laughter. She was a blessing to the first family and the nation. Melissa and I lift up the entire Bush family in our prayers during this time.â€