Marian Robinson, mother of former First Lady Michelle Obama, passed away peacefully at age 86. A lifelong Chicago resident, Robinson moved to Washington, D.C., in 2009 to help care for her granddaughters, Malia and Sasha, during Barack Obama’s presidency. Though she kept a low public profile, she became a quiet, grounding presence in the White House and was affectionately known as the “first grandmother.”

Robinson’s decision to relocate wasn’t easy; she initially hesitated to leave Chicago but accepted with a “healthy nudge,” concerned for her daughter’s family and grandchildren’s safety. During her eight years in the White House, she embraced her role as grandmother, often reinforcing rules at home while gently siding with the children. She attended some official events but preferred quiet time upstairs, even doing her own laundry despite staff offers to help.

The family praised Robinson as a constant source of strength and love, calling her their “pillar of support.” President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden honored her memory, describing her as a devoted mother and grandmother whose kindness touched everyone around her. Her warmth and steady presence helped keep the Obama family grounded through their historic time in office.

Born in 1937, Robinson raised Michelle and Craig Robinson on Chicago’s South Side alongside her husband Fraser, who died in 1991. Known for her humility, she declined special treatment and only asked to meet the Pope while in the White House.

The family expressed deep gratitude for her life, pledging to carry forward her values, love, and example.