Marian Robinson, Michelle Obama's Mother, Passes Away at 86

 

Marian Shields Robinson, the mother of former First Lady Michelle Obama, has passed away at the age of 86. Robinson was a beloved figure in the Obama family and played a significant role in the lives of her granddaughters, Malia and Sasha.

Robinson moved to the White House in 2009 to help care for her granddaughters and became a reassuring presence in their lives. She was known for her unconditional love and support, and her lack of Secret Service protection allowed her to accompany her granddaughters to school daily without fanfare.

Michelle Obama has often spoken about the significant influence her mother had on her life, describing her as her "rock" and crediting her with allowing her the freedom to pursue her goals while keeping her feet grounded. In her memoir, "Becoming," Michelle Obama wrote, "I would not be who I am today without the steady hand and unconditional love of my mother, Marian Shields Robinson."

Robinson was a widow and lifelong Chicago resident who initially resisted the idea of moving to Washington but was eventually persuaded by her son, Craig. She went on to enjoy her time in the White House, attending various events and traveling with the Obama family to destinations including France, Russia, Italy, Ghana, South Africa, Botswana, and China.

Born in Chicago on July 30, 1937, Robinson was one of seven children and stressed the importance of education to her children. Both Michelle and her brother, Craig, went on to attend Ivy League schools and achieve great success in their respective fields.

The Obama family has released a statement saying, "There was and will be only one Marian Robinson. In our sadness, we are lifted up by the extraordinary gift of her life." Robinson's passing is a significant loss for the Obama family, but her legacy and impact on their lives will be remembered and cherished forever.