Michelle Obama's Mother, Marian Robinson Dies at 86
Marian Robinson, Michelle Obama's mother, died at 86. She cared for her granddaughters, Sasha and Malia, during Barack Obama's presidency. The cause of death was not disclosed. Mitchell Layton/Getty Images

Marian Robinson, former First Lady Michelle Obama mother, passed away at 86 on Friday.

Robinson, who lived in the White House to help raise Sasha and Malia, was a stabilizing force for the Obama family, ABC6 reports.

Michelle Obama praised her mother's unwavering support, calling her the family's "steady backstop."

The family's statement highlighted Robinson's wisdom and grace, describing her as having an innate yet hard-earned understanding that the world's rough edges could be softened with grace.

Robinson's presence and support were deeply valued by the Obama family during Barack Obama's presidency.

Early Life and Family

Marian Lois Shields was born and raised on Chicago's South Side. She initially pursued teaching before becoming a secretary.

In 1960, she married Fraser Robinson, and they had two children: Craig in 1962 and Michelle in 1964.

In a 2022 "Good Morning America" interview, Michelle Obama and her mother discussed their close bond, recalling family meals and Michelle's love for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

Marian Robinson was a pillar of support when Michelle married Barack Obama, according to Fox News.

The family noted she remained a refuge during unpredictable times, including on Election Night 2008.

After Barack's win, she moved into the White House to help raise Sasha and Malia, humorously saying, "Just show me how to work the washing machine, and I'm good."

Robinson preferred to avoid the spotlight, forming close friendships with White House staff and enjoying simple pleasures like buying greeting cards at CVS.

Occasionally recognized by customers, she would smile and say, "Oh, I get that a lot."

Despite initial reluctance, Michelle Obama mother adapted to White House life, enforcing bedtimes, watching TV, and indulging in candy with her granddaughters.

Her presence as "first grandma" created a sense of normalcy and stability for Sasha and Malia, essential for their upbringing.

A Legacy of Education and Resilience

Marian Robinson was dedicated to her children's education, ensuring both Craig and Michelle graduated from Ivy League universities.

Fraser Robinson worked full-time despite having multiple sclerosis to provide quality education for them.

Michelle Obama often highlights the open, honest conversations they had as children, fostering confidence and curiosity, BBC noted.

After Barack Obama's presidency, Robinson returned to Chicago but stayed actively involved with her family.

Michelle celebrated their bond with a Mother's Day photo three weeks before Robinson's passing.

Marian Robinson's cause of death was not disclosed.

Survived by her children Craig and Michelle, daughter-in-law Kelly, and six grandchildren, Robinson's family expressed deep gratitude for her life.

They aim to honor her memory by living up to her example.

Michelle Obama mother's life, marked by love, resilience, and wisdom, saw her rise from a humble background on Chicago's South Side to the White House.

As "first grandma," she brought stability and warmth to the Obama family.

Her legacy endures through her descendants, who cherish her memory.

Her passing marks the end of an era for the Obama family, but her love and influence will resonate with them and all who knew her.

They celebrate her life and the profound impact she had on their hearts.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Marian Robinson, Michelle Obama's mother, dies at 86 - From ABC7