Marian Robinson, the mother of former first lady Michelle Obama, passed away at the age of 86, as confirmed by her family on Friday.
In a heartfelt statement, it was revealed that she peacefully passed away this morning. The loss of her leaves us uncertain about how we will continue without her.
Michelle Obama, born in 1937 on Chicago’s South Side, had a humble upbringing as one of seven children. Initially trained as a teacher, she later pursued a career as a secretary. Michelle married Fraser Robinson and together they had two children, Michelle and Craig Robinson. Sadly, Fraser passed away in 1991.
When her son-in-law, former President Barack Obama, won the presidency in 2008, the family convinced her to leave Chicago and make the White House her new home.
“The family expressed their deep reliance on her,” the statement released on Friday conveyed. “Her presence was crucial, especially for the girls. Throughout the entire ordeal, she proved to be our unwavering support.”
During a 2018 interview with “CBS Mornings,” she opened up about the significant change she had to make in her life. Joining her daughter, she expressed that although it was a massive adjustment, she felt compelled to do it for the sake of her granddaughters, Sasha and Malia Obama.
Robinson expressed her concern for the challenges that lay ahead for both of them, which made her apprehensive about their safety. Moreover, she also expressed her worry for the well-being of her grandkids, emphasizing the weight of the situation.
According to Michelle Obama, her mother quickly grew to be a beloved figure in the White House.
In 2018, Obama shared his observation about his grandmother, saying, “She had a constant flow of people – the butlers, the housekeepers. They would all come by… Grandma’s room was like a confessional. It was a place where everyone would go to unload and share, and then they would leave. People still visit with my mom in Chicago.”
After completing his second term, Obama, Robinson’s son, returned to Chicago. According to her family, Robinson also went back to the city, where she reconnected with old friends, shared witty banter, went on trips, and savored a glass of wine.
During the 2018 interview, she expressed her sentiment of not missing the White House. However, she did mention that she missed the people who were like family to her during her time there.
The family expressed on Friday that as a mother, she played a crucial role in their lives. She acted as a support system, offering comfort and understanding during both their successes and failures. Regardless of the distance they traveled, she would always be there to welcome them back home with a profound and unwavering love.