Marian Robinson, the mother of former First Lady Michelle Obama and a fixture of the Obama family for decades, died peacefully at age 86.
Robinson was born on Chicago’s South Side in 1937 and dedicated her life to her family. After Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential election victory, she moved to Washington, D.C., in 2009 to help care for granddaughters Malia and Sasha during their White House years.
Family Tributes Pour In
Michelle Obama, former President Barack Obama, and other family members released a statement describing Robinson as “our rock,” highlighting her warmth and quiet wisdom. “She had an infectious sense of humor and an unwavering devotion to family,” the statement said, noting she kept the household grounded amid the demands of presidential life.
Though she became known as the nation’s “first grandmother,” Robinson preferred to remain largely out of the public eye. “She maintained household rules but showed a soft spot for her grandchildren,” her family recalled.
National Recognition
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden honored Robinson’s legacy, describing her as compassionate and down-to-earth. Michelle Obama had recently dedicated a museum exhibit in her mother’s honor, expressing gratitude for the guidance that shaped her life.
Robinson’s influence extended across generations through her commitment to family values and steadfast support during pivotal moments in American history.
This story has been updated. CNN’s reporting team contributed to this report.
