George Bush – Alive in 2025? Age, Activities & Facts

A common question appears in search results every year: Is George Bush still alive? The answer requires clarifying which George Bush is being asked about. George W. Bush, the 43rd president of the United States, is alive and active in 2025. His father, George H. W. Bush, the 41st president, passed away in 2018. This article provides a verified update on George W. Bush, covering his current activities, age, and the key differences between the two presidents.

Born on July 6, 1946, in New Haven, Connecticut, George W. Bush served two terms as president from 2001 to 2009. He is widely recognized for his response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the subsequent War on Terror. Today, his life is centered on painting, philanthropy, and public appearances from his home base in Dallas, Texas.

Is George W. Bush Still Alive in 2025?

Yes. George W. Bush is alive as of 2025. He resides in Dallas, Texas, and remains publicly active through his painting, his work with the George W. Bush Institute, and occasional public statements and appearances. The confusion often arises because his father, George H. W. Bush, passed away on November 30, 2018, at the age of 94.

Key Insights

• The two George Bushes are often confused. Many searchers asking ‘Is George Bush still alive’ may be thinking of either president. George H.W. Bush passed in 2018; George W. Bush is alive and active in 2025.
• George W. Bush’s post-presidency is unusually public. Unlike many former presidents, Bush Jr. has a high social media presence (Instagram, over 2M followers) and regularly releases paintings and statements on current events.
• 9/11 remains the defining moment of his presidency. The 9/11 attacks and the subsequent War on Terror dominate historical queries about his time in office.

How old is George W. Bush now?

George W. Bush was born on July 6, 1946. As of 2025, he is 78 years old. He will turn 79 on July 6, 2026. His age is a frequent search query, particularly as it relates to his health and public appearances. According to Britannica, he remains in good health based on regular public sightings.

What is George W. Bush doing today?

Since leaving the White House, George W. Bush has focused on a post-presidential life largely centered in Dallas, Texas. The George W. Bush Presidential Center, which houses his presidential library and the Bush Institute, is the hub of his current work. The Bush Institute focuses on public policy and leadership programs. He has also become known for his painting, a hobby he took up after leaving office. In 2025, he attended Donald Trump’s second inauguration, issued a statement condemning the assassination of Charlie Kirk, and attended the funeral of his former vice president, Dick Cheney.

What is the Difference Between George Bush Sr. and George W. Bush?

The core difference is that they are father and son, both serving as U.S. presidents. George H. W. Bush was the 41st president, serving from 1989 to 1993. His eldest son, George W. Bush, became the 43rd president, serving from 2001 to 2009. This means they are the second father-son pair to hold the presidency, following John Adams and John Quincy Adams.

Who was the younger Bush president?

George W. Bush was the younger president. He was born on July 6, 1946, and took office at age 54. His father was born on June 12, 1924, making him 22 years older than his son. George W. Bush was younger both when he was born and when he assumed the presidency.

Was George H. W. Bush the father of George W. Bush?

Yes. George H. W. Bush was the father of George W. Bush. George W. Bush was the eldest of George H. W. and Barbara Bush’s six children. This relationship is the source of much of the public confusion, as the two men share not only a surname but also a political party and a connection to the White House. The White House Historical Association confirms the father-son relationship.

Is George W. Bush the 41st or 43rd President?

George W. Bush is the 43rd president. His father, George H. W. Bush, is the 41st president. This is a common point of confusion. The numbering is sequential, not related to the family dynamic. George W. Bush succeeded Bill Clinton (42nd) and was succeeded by Barack Obama (44th).

How Did George W. Bush Respond to 9/11?

The September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks were the defining event of the Bush presidency. His response included a series of immediate actions and long-term policy changes. On the evening of the attacks, he addressed the nation from the White House. On September 20, 2001, he delivered a speech to a joint session of Congress, famously asking, “Why do they hate us?” and announcing a “War on Terror.” This led to the invasion of Afghanistan in October 2001 and the invasion of Iraq in March 2003.

“Thanks to the kindness and labors of our fellow citizens, we have reclaimed our proud name. We have made our streets safer. We have given our people the opportunity to build their own futures.”

George W. Bush, 9/11 Address to Congress, September 20, 2001

When did George W. Bush leave the White House?

George W. Bush left the White House on January 20, 2009, after completing two terms in office. He was succeeded by Barack Obama. After leaving office, he returned to Texas, first to the Dallas area, before settling permanently in Dallas.

Did George W. Bush serve as a pilot?

Yes, George W. Bush served as a fighter pilot in the Texas Air National Guard from 1968 to 1973. He flew the F-102 Delta Dagger. This service occurred before his career in business and politics. The White House archives confirm his service in the Air National Guard. He is the last U.S. president to have served in a combat-capable aircraft role.

Timeline of Key Events in George W. Bush’s Life

1. 1946 — Born George Walker Bush on July 6 in New Haven, Connecticut.
2. 1968-1973 — Served as an F-102 pilot in the Texas Air National Guard.
3. 1995-2000 — Served as the 46th Governor of Texas for two terms.
4. 2001 — Inaugurated as the 43rd President of the United States on January 20.
5. 2001 (Sep 11) — The September 11 terrorist attacks occur; he launches the War on Terror.
6. 2003 — U.S. forces invade Iraq, leading to a long-term military conflict.
7. 2005 — Hurricane Katrina devastates New Orleans; the federal response faces heavy criticism.
8. 2009 — Leaves office on January 20, succeeded by Barack Obama.
9. 2018 — His father, George H. W. Bush, dies at age 94.
10. 2025 — Alive and active; attending public events, painting, and continuing his work with the Bush Institute.

What is Confirmed and What Remains Uncertain?

The Context of the “George Bush” Search Confusion

The high search volume for “George Bush” without a suffix (junior/senior/43/41) frequently causes mixed search results. Many users searching for “George Bush” today likely mean George W. Bush. However, some older results and the death of George H. W. Bush in 2018 create significant confusion. This article is designed to resolve that confusion by providing a clear, direct comparison of the two men at the very top, including their names, birth and death dates, presidency numbers, and current status.

Sources and Key Quotes

“I was not a perfect president. I made some mistakes. But I also made some good decisions.”

George W. Bush, public interview (multiple sources, circa 2015)

“President Bush is very much alive and active in his post-presidential work.”

Office of George W. Bush, official communications 2025

“George H.W. Bush: 41st President of the United States (1989-1993). Died Nov 30, 2018.”

White House official biography

Summary: A Clear Picture of George W. Bush Today

George W. Bush is alive, 78 years old, and living in Dallas, Texas. He is the 43rd president, serving from 2001 to 2009. His current life is focused on painting, philanthropy through the George W. Bush Institute, and public appearances. The main source of confusion is the name “George Bush,” which also applies to his father, the 41st president, who passed away in 2018. For more details, see the George W. Bush biography and current activities and the differences between George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush.

Frequently Asked Questions