Chicago, Illinois – Marian Robinson, the mother of former first lady Michelle Obama, passed away at the age of 86, as announced by her family on Friday. Born in 1937 and raised on Chicago’s South Side, Robinson was one of seven children and pursued a career as a teacher before working as a secretary. She was married to Fraser Robinson, with whom she had two children, Michelle and Craig Robinson, before Fraser’s passing in 1991.
When her son-in-law, former President Barack Obama, won the presidency in 2008, Robinson moved into the White House to provide support and care for her granddaughters, Sasha and Malia. Michelle Obama described her mother’s presence in the White House as essential, noting the impact she had on the family and White House staff, becoming a beloved figure during their time there.
After the end of Obama’s second term, Robinson returned to Chicago, where she reconnected with friends, enjoyed traveling, and appreciated the simple pleasures in life. In a 2018 interview, Robinson expressed that it was the people she missed from the White House, as they had become like family to her. Her family described her as a calm and nonjudgmental presence, always offering unconditional love and support to her loved ones.
President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden paid tribute to Robinson, acknowledging her devotion as a mother and grandmother and praising her unwavering love for her family. They emphasized Robinson’s role in serving her country by being there for her family when they needed her most. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of family and the strength that comes from unconditional love and support.