Stay strong! Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Obama family for their tragic loss

Marian Robinson, mother of Michelle Obama, passed away peacefully early Friday morning at the age of 86.

In a statement, the family expressed their deep love and admiration for Robinson. “As a mother, she was our backstop, a calm and nonjudgmental witness to our triumphs and stumbles,” they shared. “She was always there, welcoming us back home no matter how far we had journeyed, with that deep and abiding love.”

Known as the first grandmother of the U.S. during Barack Obama’s presidency, Robinson played a vital yet understated role in the White House. Michelle Obama reflected on her mother’s steadfast support in a heartfelt message, saying, “She was the same steady backstop for our entire family, and we are heartbroken to share she passed away today.”

Robinson’s influence was especially significant in the lives of her granddaughters, Sasha and Malia. She moved from Chicago to Washington, D.C., in 2009 to help care for them during Obama’s presidency. Despite her proximity to the world’s most powerful figures, she preferred the simple joys of family life.

Her family lovingly remembered her in a tribute, stating, “We will all miss her greatly, and we wish she were here to offer us some perspective, to mend our heavy hearts with a laugh and a dose of her wisdom. However, we take comfort in the knowledge that she is back in the arms of her loving Fraser, that she has moved her TV tray next to his recliner, and that they are raising their glasses to their highballs while she tells him stories about this crazy, wonderful ride.”

Robinson was born in Chicago in 1937 and raised her children, Michelle and Craig Robinson, on the city’s South Side. She married Fraser Robinson in 1960, who passed away in 1991 due to multiple sclerosis. Adjusting to life in the White House, Robinson often preferred the company of her family over mingling with celebrities and dignitaries. The family fondly recalled how she spent her time with a TV tray in a room with a view of the Washington Monument and how the only guest she requested to meet was the Pope.

Tributes have poured in for Robinson, with tennis legend Billie Jean King and actress Mia Farrow among those expressing their condolences. King recalled spending time with Robinson at the Arthur Ashe Kids Day at the US Open in 2013, and Farrow sent heartfelt sympathies, saying, “My family sends our love. It breaks our hearts to hear about your loss.”

Lin-Manuel Miranda also shared a touching memory on Instagram, writing, “When you invited me to perform at the White House in 2009, I was too scared to look any of you in the eye from the stage. I didn’t feel calm and ready to go until I looked over and saw your mom’s bright smile.”