She was a continuous source of support for our family, therefore we are devastated to hear that she passed away today.

Despite her reclusive nature, Robinson played a vital part in the White House under both of Obama’s administrations.

While traveling abroad, she went to holiday parties and performances in the East Room.

But her main concern was for her grandchildren, Sasha and Malia.

“We hope she could provide us with some clarity, to lighten our sorrowful hearts through laughter and a pinch of her knowledge,” the family wrote in a note, expressing their deep loss for her.

However, the fact that she is back in her loyal partner Fraser’s arms, that she has placed her TV tray next to his chair, and that they are bringing their glasses to the top while she tells him stories of this incredible and crazy adventure gives us comfort. She is sorely missing him.

Despite having spent her entire childhood in Chicago, Robinson gave permission to travel to Washington, DC, in 2009 to help with the upbringing of her young grandchildren who were staying in the White House.

She was vital to our group. She was trusted by the women. In a tribute, the family called her “our rock through it all.”

“She loved Avery, Leslie, Austin, Aaron, and being Malia and Sasha’s grandmother just as much.”

Robinson was born in 1937 and raised on the South Side of Chicago. Michelle Robinson and Craig Robinson, her two children, were reared there.

They were married in 1960, and he died in 1991 of multiple sclerosis.

Robinson had to get used to being waited on after relocating from the South Side to the White House.

She often had to beg her coworkers to let her finish things on her own, including laundry.

“Rather than mixing with Oscar winners or Nobel laureates, she preferred to spend her time upstairs with a TV tray, in the room outside her bedroom with big windows that looked out at the Washington Monument,” according to family members.

“The only person she specifically asked to meet was the Pope.”

TALKING ABOUT STORIES
Billie Jean King, the 39-time Grand Slam champion, was one of the numerous writers who paid respect to Robinson.

King told us, “We are sending our deepest condolences to the Obama family on the passing of Marian Robinson, the mother of the former first lady.”

I was able to spend some time alone with her in 2013 at the US Open’s Arthur Ashe Kids Day.

“May peace find her soul.”

On her blog, actress Mia Farrow wrote, “My family sends our love.” We are so sorry to hear of your passing.

“I was too scared to look any of you in the eye from the stage when you invited me to perform at the White House in 2009,” Lin-Manuel Miranda said on Instagram.

I didn’t feel comfortable or ready to go until I turned to see your mom’s beaming smile.

unable to come to terms with her departure. We will be praying for you and your family in the coming days and weeks.