Paris, June 6 – A condolence register has been opened at the Élysée House in Paris, allowing members of the public to pay their respects to Bernadette Chirac, who passed away on Friday, June 5, at the age of 93. The announcement of her death by her daughter, Claude Chirac, on Saturday, has led to a multitude of tributes from political figures and the public.
A Distinguished First Lady Remembered
Bernadette Chirac, wife of former President Jacques Chirac, was a prominent figure in French public life for decades. Beyond her role as First Lady for 12 years, she was also a dedicated politician in Corrèze and the founder of the ‘Pièces Jaunes’ charity. Her passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance across France.
Public Pays Tribute at Élysée House
The Élysée House, located in Paris, has become a focal point for those wishing to honor Bernadette Chirac’s memory. On Saturday afternoon, dozens of individuals, including French citizens and tourists, gathered to sign the condolence register. One American tourist remarked, “I wrote a note of condolence for France and for her loved ones. I think she was a strong woman. She reminded me of Eleanor Roosevelt with the battles she fought when she was First Lady. I read and followed her work, which is why she reminds me of Mrs. Roosevelt.”
The register will remain accessible to the public at the Élysée House on Sunday, June 7, providing another opportunity for people to express their condolences. Following this, the book will be presented to the Chirac family.
Widespread Tributes from Political Leaders
Since the news of her death, numerous political personalities have paid tribute to Bernadette Chirac. Emmanuel Macron, Nicolas Sarkozy, and François Hollande have all recognized her as a “great lady of heart,” a “great friend,” and an “engaged woman,” highlighting her significant contributions to French society.
Bernadette Chirac’s legacy extends beyond her political roles. Her commitment to charitable causes, particularly through the ‘Pièces Jaunes’ operation, which raises funds for hospitals, has left a lasting impact on the lives of many. Her dedication to public service and her unwavering support for her husband, Jacques Chirac, have cemented her place in the history of the Fifth Republic.
The Impact of a Public Figure
Her life was marked by a strong sense of duty and a deep connection to the French people. Even after stepping down from the public eye, her influence and the respect she commanded remained evident. The public’s desire to sign the condolence register underscores the profound impact she had on the nation.
The opening of the condolence register at the Élysée House serves as a public gesture of remembrance, allowing citizens to collectively mourn and celebrate the life of a woman who dedicated much of her life to France.
Source: https://www.europe1.fr/politique/mort-de-bernadette-chirac-un-registre-de-condoleances-mis-a-la-disposition-des-francais-a-la-maison-de-lelysee-a-paris-942485?amp
