Watch: Former President George W. Bush remembers his mother's humor, smarts, and faith

As the country mourns the late former first lady Barbara Bush, her son former President George W. Bush and former first lady Laura Bush gave an exclusive interview to Fox Business' Maria Bartiromo to discuss and celebrate her life.

"Laura and I and our entire family are very grateful for people's prayers and sympathies," President Bush said. "It's the end of a beautiful life."

"She was funny and fierce and said her mind. A great role model for me, for sure. I learned how to be a first lady," Mrs. Bush said.

The former president described how he was able to say goodbye to his mother, both in person and on the phone.

"We had a wonderful visit; she was strong, lucid," Bush said. "Funny. She and I were needling each other. The doctor came in, and she turned to the doctor and said, 'You want to know why George W. is the way he is?' — and the doctor looked somewhat surprised — she said, 'Because I drank and smoked when I was pregnant with him.'"

Bush said it was a beautiful visit, and he emphasized that his mother did not fear death because of her Christian faith.

"Here's the thing — she had great faith. She truly believes that there's an afterlife, that she'll be wonderfully received in the arms of a loving God, and therefore did not fear death. And as a result of her soul being comforted on the deathbed, my soul is comforted."

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