Marian Robinson, Mother of Michelle Obama Dies at 86

Marian Lois Shields Robinson, 86, passed away on Friday, leaving a legacy as the devoted mother of Michelle Obama, the former First Lady of the United States. Mrs. Robinson, who played an integral role in raising Michelle Obama in a modest apartment on Chicago‘s South Side, later moved to the White House with her daughter and son-in-law when Barack Obama assumed the presidency.

Michelle Obama expressed deep sorrow over her mother’s passing, highlighting Marian Robinson’s unwavering support and constant presence in her life and that of their entire family. Mrs. Robinson, along with her late husband Fraser Robinson, instilled essential values and discipline in Michelle Obama during their time at 7436 S. Euclid Ave in Chicago.

Fraser Robinson, who worked at the City of Chicago Water Filtration Plant near Navy Pier and served as a Democratic precinct captain, passed away in 1991. After their tenure in the White House, Marian Robinson returned to Chicago, where she spent her final days. The cause of her death has not been disclosed.

Named after Marian Robinson, an exhibit at the Obama Presidential Center Museum in Jackson Park pays tribute to her influence and guidance in Michelle Obama’s life. Michelle Obama credited her mother for instilling confidence, independence, and self-worth in her, shaping her into the person she is today. Through her care and teachings, Mrs. Robinson paved the way for Michelle Obama and Craig, her son, to attend Princeton University.

During Barack Obama’s presidency, Marian Robinson moved into the White House to assist in caring for her granddaughters, Sasha and Malia. Michelle Obama vividly recalls the emotional journey of convincing her mother to relocate from the South Side to Washington, underlining Mrs. Robinson’s pivotal role in their family’s stability and support system.

From her upbringing in segregated Chicago, where she was one of seven siblings, Marian Robinson learned the importance of resilience and perseverance. Her parents, Rebecca Jumper and Purnell Shields, instilled in her a love for music and a drive to pursue education, leading her to become a teacher and secretary.

Living on the third floor of the White House during her daughter’s tenure as First Lady, Mrs. Robinson offered unwavering love and comfort to her family during challenging times. Her presence was a source of strength for Michelle Obama, who often sought solace with her mother amidst the pressures of public life.