Marian Robinson, former First Lady Michelle Obama’s mother and former President Barack Obama’s mother-in-law, died on Friday at the age of 86, according to the Obama family.
“My mom Marian Robinson was my rock, always there for whatever I needed,” Michelle Obama wrote in a post on X (previously Twitter). “She was the same steady backstop for our entire family, and we are heartbroken to share she passed away today.”
The Obamas, a beloved American first family, paid tribute to Robinson’s character and life on Barack Obama’s Medium account, stating, “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.”
Robinson’s journey was remarkable, from growing up on Chicago’s fiercely segregated South Side to becoming a constant presence in the White House, as described in the tribute. She raised Michelle and Craig with her husband, Fraser Robinson. The family recalled Michelle’s support when she married Barack Obama, “a guy crazy enough to go into politics,” and how she held his hand when he became the first Black president in 2008.
READ MORE: Police Say Obama’s Personal Chef Died In A Pond On Martha’s Vineyard
Robinson volunteered in the White House to care for her grandchildren, Malia and Sasha, and requested a meeting with Pope Francis. She then returned to Chicago, where she enjoyed family activities and instilled confidence and self-esteem in her children and grandkids.
The members of the family wrote, “From infancy through adulthood, she stood secondary watch over her grandchildren’s growth and development, inspiring them, listening to them, telling them she was proud of them, making them feel loved, like they were remarkable in every way.”
Craig Robinson, his wife Kelly, and their children all signed the moving tribute. The family took solace in knowing Marian had rejoined with her husband Fraser, who died in 1991, stating, “She’s pulled up her TV tray next to his recliner, and they’re clinking their highball glasses as she catches him up on the stories of this crazy, wonderful voyage. She’s missed him so much.”
Radiant TV, offering to elevate your entertainment game! Movies, TV series, exclusive interviews, music, and more—download now on various devices, including iPhones, Androids, smart TVs, Apple TV, Fire Stick, and more.
