Former Spouse of a Nation's Leader - "Grieving Michelle Obama mourns the passing of her beloved mother"
Michelle Obama's mom, Marian Robinson, died on Friday. The family reported her death to NBC News. She was 86 years old. "She passed away peacefully this morning," their statement says. "Right now, none of us really know how to carry on without her."
When Michelle and Barack Obama moved into the White House after the 2008 election, Marian Robinson moved with them. "We required her presence," the family statement says. "The girls required her. At the end of the day, she was our fortress during turbulent times."
It adds how she loved being a grandmother. Yes, the statement mentions that she enforced the house's sleep, TV, and candy rules, but she made it clear to the grandkids that she was on their side when the parents were being too strict.
This announcement was shared on social media by Michelle, Barack, Craig Robinson (Michelle's brother), and his wife Kelly, as well as by Marian Robinson's grandchildren Avery, Leslie, Malia, Sasha, Austin, and Aaron.
On Instagram, Michelle shared a touching message "My mother Marian Robinson was our rock in the storm, she was always there for us," she wrote. "The same strength was also present for our entire family, and we're devastated she's no longer with us."
Barack Obama also offered his condolences in a separate statement. "Marian Robinson will always be one-of-a-kind," he tweeted. "During our grief, her exceptional life will lift us."
Michelle Obama's dad, Fraser Robinson, passed away in 1991. He had multiple sclerosis and died at 55 years old.
