Betty Ford dead in Rancho Mirage, CA at 93

Above: Betty Ford finishes the concession speech for her laryngitis-impaired husband on Nov. 3, 1976

Betty Ford was much beloved for her forthright candor in meeting the challenges of both breast cancer and substance abuse, the latter of which resulted in her founding the most famous rehab center in the world.

Betty Ford and daughter Susan in the Oval Office

The Ford White House was not buttoned­down. When he took up residence at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Gerald Ford was reported to have remarked: "This is the best public housing I've ever seen!"

Hugh Sidey recounted an elevator incident involving the Fords and the Queen of England as recalled by the President:

“I was always proud to have foreign leaders come to the White House. It is not as big as some of their homes, but it’s got unique American charm. One time I realized how personal and business areas coincide there. During the Bicentennial celebration, we had many State Dinners for heads of government. The biggest one, white tie, was held for Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. When the guests arrive for an occasion like this, the president and first lady go out to the front to meet them, escort them to the elevator, and take them to the Yellow Oval Room in the living quarters. We escorted the queen and the prince to the elevator and when the door opened on the second floor, there was our son Jack standing with his pants on but his shirt off. And he says, “Oh, I’m trying to find my dress shirt and studs.” Betty apologized, but the queen said, “Don’t worry, we have one just like it.”