WASHINGTON —  President Bush offered condolences Friday to the family of Strom Thurmond, saying the late Republican senator had "led an extraordinary life."

"He will be missed," Bush said in a statement noting Thurmond's death on Thursday at age 100.

"He served in the Army during World War II, earning a Bronze Star for valor and landing at Normandy on D-Day," Bush said. "He served his country as senator, governor, and state legislator and was a beloved teacher, coach, husband, father, and grandfather."

Bush's statement recalled that he had campaigned with Thurmond in South Carolina in 1988 when Bush's father was running for president. "I saw first hand the tremendous love he had for his constituents, and the admiration the people of South Carolina had for him.'

"He was also a friend and I was honored to have hosted his 100th birthday at the White House. Laura joins me in sending our prayers and condolences to the entire Thurmond family. "