Kennebunk Police Dedicate Sunset To Barbara Bush

Mainers took to social media to offer their condolences to the Bush family, including a poignant post from the Kennebunk Police Department.

Former First Lady Barbara Bush died Tuesday evening at her Houston home at the age of 92. Her death followed her decision to end recent medical care and opt for comfort care while she spent her final days in her own home, surrounded by family.

I've been struck by the outpouring of memories posted on social media of encounters around Maine with the former First Lady, whose family spent their summers at Walker's Point in Kennebunkport. One post talked about the days before 9/11, when she could move around the town without a visible Secret Service escort, driving her car with the personalized 'I READ' license plate. Another talked about her apparent love for walking the beach with her dog.

It was those walks on the beach that prompted perhaps the most poignant of all the social media tributes, which came from the Kennebunk Police Department. Instead of releasing a statement about her accomplishments, they went for a more personal approach that brought tears to my eyes.

Mrs. Bush, thank you for your service to our country and your dedication to the residents of Maine. May you rest in peace.