Praise for former US president George H.W. Bush, poured in on Saturday hours after his death at 94 at his Houston home.

His son, former president George W. Bush said he “was a man of the highest character. The entire Bush family is deeply grateful for 41’s life and love, for the compassion of those who have cared and prayed for Dad.”

Former president Barack Obama said “George H.W. Bush’s life is a testament to the notion that public service is a noble, joyous calling. And he did tremendous good along the journey.”

President Donald Trump said: “Through his essential authenticity, disarming wit, and unwavering commitment to faith, family, and country, President Bush inspired generations of his fellow Americans to public service to be, in his words, “a thousand points of light” illuminating the greatness, hope, and opportunity of America to the world.”

Former president Bill Clinton said he would “be forever grateful for the friendship we formed. From the moment I met him as a young governor invited to his home in Kennebunkport, I was struck by the kindness he showed to Chelsea, by his innate and genuine decency, and by his devotion to Barbara, his children, and their growing brood.”

James A. Baker III, secretary of state in the Bush administration, stated that “The legacy of George H.W. Bush will be forever etched in the history of America and the world. It is a lifelong record of selfless patriotic service to our nation.”

Brent Scowcroft, Bush’s national security adviser, lamented that “The world has lost a great leader; this country has lost one of its best; and I have lost one of my dearest friends. I am heartbroken.”

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said “Texans are genuinely honored that he called the Lone Star State home and we collectively grieve this monumental loss.”

In Kuwait, which was grateful to Bush for his intervention after Iraq invaded during the 1991 Gulf War, ruling emir Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah said the former president tried to “create a new international order based on justice and equality among nations.” He never “forgot the Kuwaiti people and will remain in their memory.”

Actress Marlee Matlin, who is deaf, tweeted: “Remembering President George H.W. Bush and the Americans With Disabilities Act. Millions with Disabilities and who are Deaf or HOH (hard of hearing)” have had their lives “changed for the better as a result of his signing this landmark legislation. My condolences to his entire family RIP #georgehwbush.”

Democratic political strategist Donna Brazile tweeted: “President George H.W. Bush was the real deal. We fought but he was gracious enough to accept my apology. Through his daughter Dorothy, my friends Ron Kaufman and Mary Matalin, I got to know him. Rest in Peace #georgehwbush.” (NAN)

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