Washington, D.C.: Marian Shields Robinson, the mother of former First Lady Michelle Obama, has passed away at the age of 86. Robinson became a well-known figure during her time in the White House, where she moved from her hometown of Chicago to help care for her granddaughters during the Obama administration. Here are the details:
- Early Life and Background:
- Born on July 30, 1937, in Chicago, Marian Robinson was one of seven children. Her early life was marked by difficulties, including her parents’ separation during her teenage years and racial discrimination in the United States.
- She married Fraser Robinson in 1960 and gave great importance to the education of her children.
- White House Years:
- In 2009, Marian Robinson agreed to move to Washington, D.C., to live in the White House residence and help take care of her granddaughters, Malia and Sasha, who were seven and ten years old at the time.
- Initially hesitant, she eventually became a fixture in the White House during her son-in-law Barack Obama’s eight years in office. While she kept a low profile, she attended holiday events, overseas trips, and concerts in the East Room.
- Robinson’s family members described her as a rock for the family, emphasizing that “we needed her” and that she relished her role as a grandmother. Despite enforcing household rules, she sided with her “grandbabies” when it came to their parents’ strictness.
- Legacy and Impact:
- Robinson’s presence in the White House symbolized the importance of family support during Barack Obama’s historic presidency. She played a crucial role in caring for her granddaughters and providing stability during their time in Washington, D.C.
- Her legacy extends beyond politics, as she embodied resilience, love, and dedication to family.
The passing of Marian Shields Robinson leaves a void, but her impact will be remembered for generations to come. Our thoughts are with the Obama family during this difficult time.
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