    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2001, Book II)]
    [July 17, 2001]
    [Page 859]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of Katharine Graham
    July 17, 2001

        The Nation's Capital and our entire Nation today mourn the loss of
    the beloved first lady of Washington and American journalism, Katharine
    Graham. Her legacy and influence spanned many different arenas, from
    powerful publisher to quiet philanthropist, to accomplished
    businesswoman, to Pulitzer Prize winning author, to gracious and loyal
    friend. Presidents come and go, and Katharine Graham knew them all. When
    Laura and I moved to Washington, she was the first to welcome a new
    President to the Nation's Capital with a dinner at her home. Mrs. Graham
    became a legend in her own lifetime because she was a true leader and a
    true lady, steely yet shy, powerful yet humble, known for her integrity
    and always gracious and generous to others. Her life, chronicled in her
    Pulitzer Prize-winning autobiography, presents a tremendous example for
    our generation and generations to come. Laura and I send our prayers to
    her children and grandchildren, to her colleagues at the Washington Post
    Co., and to her many friends throughout Washington, America, and the
    world. She will be sorely missed.