Former First Lady Michelle Obama’s mother, Marian Robinson, has sadly passed away at the age of 86. The news was confirmed by a family statement shared with NBC News. Robinson, who became a fixture of the White House during her son-in-law Barack Obama’s presidency, leaves behind a legacy of love, support, and quiet strength.
A Grandmother’s Love
Marian Robinson was affectionately known as the country’s “first grandmother.” She moved from her hometown of Chicago to Washington, D.C., in 2009 to help care for her granddaughters, Sasha and Malia, who were seven and ten years old at the time. Her decision to leave Chicago and reside in the White House was driven by her concern for their well-being. In an interview with CBS, she expressed her worries about their safety and the challenges they might face in the public eye. Her dedication to her family led her to make this significant move, and she became an integral part of the Obama household.
A Low-Profile Presence
While Marian Robinson kept a low profile, she was a constant presence in the White House during Barack Obama’s eight years in office. She attended holiday events, accompanied the family on overseas trips, and enjoyed concerts in the East Room. However, her primary focus was always her granddaughters. She relished her role as a grandmother, enforcing household rules while also siding with her “grandbabies” when it came to their parents’ strictness.
A Remarkable Life
Born in Chicago in 1937, Marian Robinson grew up on the city’s South Side. She raised her daughter, Michelle, and her son, Craig Robinson, in the same neighborhood. Her husband, Fraser Robinson, passed away in 1991 from multiple sclerosis. Known for her down-to-earth nature, she once said that being waited on by White House residence staff was a “huge adjustment.” She even convinced them to let her do her own laundry, preferring simplicity over extravagance
A Loving Legacy
The Obamas and their extended family remember Marian Robinson as a stabilizing force, a rock during challenging times. In their statement, they expressed their gratitude for her unwavering support: “We needed her. The girls needed her. And she ended up being our rock through it all.” Her legacy extends beyond the political sphere; it’s a testament to the power of family bonds and the quiet strength of a grandmother’s love.
As we mourn the loss of Marian Robinson, we also celebrate her remarkable life and the impact she had on those around her. Her memory will forever be intertwined with the history of the White House and the Obama administration. May she rest in peace. 🕊️
