As reported by People magazine, Michelle Obama took to Instagram on July 29 to honor her late mother, Marian Robinson, on what would have been her 87th birthday.
Marian Robinson, who passed away on May 31, was commemorated by her daughter Michelle Obama, aged 60, through a touching social media post. Expressing gratitude for the support her family received, Michelle reminisced about her mother's resourcefulness, contentment, and ability to make others feel valued.
Robinson, known affectionately as the "grandma-in-chief" during the Obama presidency, moved from her lifelong home in Chicago to live with the then-First Family in the White House. Known for her grounding presence, she played a pivotal role as a grandmother and stabilizing force.
Michelle Obama's tribute began with heartfelt words: "Today would have been my mom’s 87th birthday. These past couple of months have been tough without her, and I am so grateful for the outpouring of love you’ve shown our family along the way."
She continued to express how her legacy deserves celebration, although her mother is no longer with them. Emphasizing Robinson's satisfaction with life, Michelle recalled the small apartment they lived in and the creative ways her mother would make holidays special.
Further highlighting her mother's influence, Michelle noted Robinson's ability to uplift others. "Because she felt like she was enough, she could help others feel that too. She did that countless times for me and my brother Craig. She did it for her family and friends. She did it for the staff at the White House. She did it for everyone she knew," said Michelle.
Robinson began living with the Obama family at the White House during Barack Obama's presidency, bringing with her a sense of stability. She was instrumental not only as a grandmother but also as a source of support for the entire family.
The Obama family collectively acknowledged her invaluable presence, reinforcing that they needed her during those significant years and reminiscing about her role in their lives. They described her as a source of strength, stating, "We needed her. The girls needed her. And she ended up being our rock through it all."
Robinson's dedication to her grandchildren was also prominent. Despite upholding household rules, she always sided with her "grandbabies," believing that their parents were too strict.
In the same Instagram post, Michelle Obama committed herself to perpetuating her mother’s legacy. "I am committing myself to carrying forward her legacy of lifting up others the best I can," she pledged.
Marian Robinson's influence transcended the family and extended to people she interacted with, from close friends to White House staff. The Obama family expressed their ongoing admiration and intention to honor her memory.
Michelle’s post stands as a testament to Robinson’s lasting legacy. "In our sadness, we are lifted up by the extraordinary gift of her life. And we will spend the rest of ours trying to live up to her example," the Obama family said in a joint statement.
Marian Robinson's memory is celebrated not just by her family but by everyone who had the privilege to know her. Through Michelle Obama’s words, her legacy of resourcefulness, contentment, and nurturing spirit continues to inspire.
