WASHINGTON, May 9, 2025 — The U.S. Postal Service unveiled a commemorative Forever stamp celebrating the centennial of former first lady Barbara Bush’s birth at a White House ceremony on Thursday. The stamp honors her legacy as a champion of literacy and a devoted family figure.
First lady Melania Trump, Dorothy “Doro” Bush Koch, daughter of Barbara Bush, Alice Yates, CEO of the George & Barbara Bush Foundation, and Judy de Torok, vice president of Corporate Affairs at the Postal Service, revealed the stamp’s artwork. The dedication ceremony is set for June 10 at Ganny’s Garden in Kennebunkport, Maine, marking the 100th anniversary of Bush’s birth.
“Today we recognize Mrs. Bush not only as a beloved first lady, but as a remarkable American in her own right,” said Doug Tulino, acting postmaster general of the Postal Service. “She charted a legacy for herself, and did it with conviction, determination, and compassion.”
Bush Koch spoke on behalf of the family, emphasizing her mother’s dedication to literacy. “We are deeply honored that the United States Postal Service is paying tribute to our mother with a commemorative Forever stamp,” she said. “This special stamp serves as a lasting reminder of Barbara Bush’s enduring love for family and friends, sharp wit and unwavering commitment to solve the problems of today by ensuring that every man, woman and child has the opportunity to read, write and comprehend.”
Barbara Pierce Bush (1925-2018), wife of George H.W. Bush, the 41st president, served as first lady from 1989 to 1993 and was the mother of George W. Bush, the 43rd president. Born in New York City, she grew up in Rye, New York, and met her future husband at 16 during a Christmas dance in Connecticut. They married on January 6, 1945, and had six children: George W., Robin, Jeb, Neil, Marvin, and Dorothy. Robin’s death from leukemia at age 3 profoundly impacted the family.
The Bushes moved nearly 30 times as George H.W. Bush pursued military, business, and political roles, including U.S. House representative, U.N. ambassador, and CIA director. Barbara Bush supported her husband’s career, campaigning for him starting in 1962 when he ran for chairman of the Harris County, Texas, Republican Party. As second lady from 1981 to 1989, inspired by her son Neil’s dyslexia, she championed literacy, authoring “C. Fred’s Story” in 1984, with proceeds benefiting literacy programs.
As first lady, she continued her literacy advocacy, solidifying her legacy. The stamp, based on a detail from her 2005 White House portrait, is part of the White House Collection, courtesy of The White House Historical Association. Issued in panes of 20, the stamp’s presale begins May 10, with news shared via #BarbaraBushStamp.
The unveiling highlights Bush’s enduring impact as a public figure who balanced family life with public service. Her literacy efforts addressed educational barriers, leaving a lasting mark on communities nationwide. The June dedication will cap a year-long celebration of her centennial, reflecting her contributions to American life.
