Marian Robinson, the beloved matriarch who was the heartbeat of the Obama family, has sadly passed away at the age of 86, sparking an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes.
- Jun 1, 2024
AceShowbiz - Marian Robinson, mother of former First Lady Michelle Obama, passed away peacefully on a Friday morning, May 31, the Obama family announced. "She passed peacefully this morning, and right now, none of us are quite sure how exactly we'll move on without her," read the family's statement.
Michelle Obama shared her own poignant reflection, stating, "My mom Marian Robinson was my rock, always there for whatever I needed. She was the same steady backstop for our entire family, and we are heartbroken to share she passed away today."
"Her wisdom came off as almost innate, as something she was born with, but in reality it was hard-earned, fashioned by her deep understanding that the world's roughest edges could always be sanded down with a little grace."
Marian Robinson played a crucial role during Barack Obama's presidency, moving into the White House to help raise her granddaughters, Malia and Sasha, ensuring they stayed grounded amidst the spotlight. Barack Obama once credited his mother-in-law with keeping his daughters steady during those challenging years.
"There was and will be only one Marian Robinson," Barack Obama stated on X, formerly known as Twitter. "In our sadness, we are lifted up by the extraordinary gift of her life. And we will spend the rest of ours trying to live up to her example."
Marian Robinson grew up in Chicago, one of seven children. She pursued a career as a teacher before transitioning to a secretary role, balancing her professional life with raising Michelle and Craig Robinson alongside her husband, Frasier. Despite the dramatic changes in her life following her daughter's ascent to global prominence, Marian remained the family's pillar of support.
Initially reluctant, Marian agreed to the move to Washington D.C. after a "healthy nudge" from Barack and Michelle Obama. She insisted on maintaining her independence, even doing her own laundry at the White House, a testament to her humble nature.
In a CBS interview, she revealed her motivation, "I felt compelled to move to Washington because I felt like this was going to be a very hard life for my daughter and son-in-law. And I was worried about their safety. I was worried about my grandkids. That's what got me to move to DC."
Marian Robinson's endearing humility and unwavering support left an indelible mark on the Obama family and beyond. She is survived by her children, Michelle and Craig, and her six grandchildren. In the words of the Obamas, "At every step, as our families went down paths none of us could have predicted, she remained our refuge from the storm."
Rest in peace, Marian Robinson. Your legacy of love, wisdom, and grace will continue to inspire generations to come.