Marian Robinson, the beloved mother of former US First Lady Michelle Obama, passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on a serene Friday morning.
A statement from her family reflected the profound loss, emphasizing her peaceful departure.
Known affectionately as a steady presence at the White House.
Marian devoted much of her time to caring for her granddaughters, Malia and Sasha, throughout Barack Obama‘s presidency from 2009 to 2017.
The Obama’s rock
In a heartfelt post on X, formerly Twitter, Michelle Obama called her mother her “rock,” always providing unwavering support.
She shared the family’s heartbreak, writing, “She was the same steady backstop for our entire family, and we are heartbroken to share she passed away today.”
Barack Obama, in his tribute, highlighted Marian’s singular influence, stating, “There was and will be only one Marian Robinson.”
He acknowledged the solace they found in celebrating her extraordinary life and expressed their commitment to honour her legacy.
Born in 1937 in Chicago, Marian Robinson was one of seven children.
She spent most of her life in the city before moving to Washington, D.C., following Barack Obama’s historic election victory.
Early in her life, she pursued teaching but eventually worked as a secretary.
She raised Michelle and her brother Craig on Chicago’s South Side with her husband Frasier Robinson.
Reflecting on her mother’s enduring support, the Obama family shared, “At every step, as our families went down paths none of us could have predicted, she remained our refuge from the storm.”
Viral photo on election night
They recalled Election Night in 2008 when Marian, holding Barack’s hand, provided comfort as the news broke of his impending presidency.
An iconic image from that historic night showed Marian seated with Barack on a sofa, watching the election results unfold.
The family statement also revealed that Marian moved to the White House after a gentle nudge from Barack and Michelle, who recognized their need for her presence.
Despite her new surroundings, Marian insisted on maintaining her independence, including doing her laundry.
In an interview with CBS, Marian explained her decision to move to Washington.
Expressing concern for her daughter and son-in-law’s demanding new life and the safety of her granddaughters.
She recalled, “I was worried about their safety. I was worried about my grandkids. That’s what got me to move to DC.”
Obama’s pillar of strength
Marian’s journey on Air Force One to France in 2009 marked her first flight out of the US.
A significant milestone for the lifelong Chicago resident.
Barack Obama once described her as “the least pretentious person” he knew.
Marian found adjusting to White House life challenging.
She preferred the simple pleasures of her private quarters.
With a TV tray and a view of the Washington Monument as opposed to mingling with celebrities and dignitaries.
The only visitor she specifically requested to meet was the Pope.
Her desire for privacy allowed her a rare freedom, often envied by her family.
David Axelrod, Obama’s advisor, recounted how Marian would frequently slip out of the White House to visit friends, avoiding the spotlight.
On Mother’s Day, Michelle Obama announced that an exhibit at the Obama Presidential Center Museum in Chicago would bear Marian’s name.
In a video announcement, Michelle credited her mother with fostering her confidence and independence, stating,
“In so many ways, she fostered in me a deep sense of confidence in who I was and who I could be, by teaching me to think for myself. I wouldn’t be who I am today without my mom.”
Marian Robinson’s legacy of love, strength, and quiet resilience will forever be cherished by her family and all who knew her.
