Former first lady Michelle Obama announced on Friday that her mother, Marian Robinson, passed away at the age of 86.
Michelle Obama described her mother as her “rock,” emphasizing that she had always been there for her, no matter the need.
My mom Marian Robinson was my rock, always there for whatever I needed. She was the same steady backstop for our entire family, and we are heartbroken to share she passed away today. We wanted to offer some reflections on her remarkable life: https://t.co/F7T6q625PC
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) May 31, 2024
Marian Lois Shield Robinson was known for her ability to capture life’s truths in just a few words or a quick phrase that prompted reflection, as shared by the Obamas and Robinsons in their joint statement.
“Her wisdom felt almost innate, as if it was something she was born with, but it was in fact hard-earned. It stemmed from her deep understanding that the world’s roughest edges could be smoothed with a bit of grace,” the statement elaborated.
Before taking up a position as a secretary, Marian Robinson studied to become a teacher.
She later met and married Fraser Robinson, and the couple had two children, Craig and Michelle.
“We will all miss her dearly and wish she were here to offer us her perspective, to lighten our heavy hearts with a laugh and a bit of her wisdom,” the joint statement concluded.
