Michelle Obama thanks Public for Prayers, Support following Mother's Passing

By AJ Thompson // Notable Deaths // EEW Magazine Online

Michelle Obama announced the passing of her mother, Marian Johnson, at the age of 86. (Credit: EEW Magazine)

Michelle Obama, has expressed her gratitude for the nation's response to the passing of her mother, Marian Robinson, at the age of 86.

The former first lady took to X (formerly known as Twitter) on Monday, June 3, to thank everyone for the outpouring of kindness and support she has received since Robinson's death.

"I just wanted to say thank you for all the prayers, kind words, and love that you all have shown our entire family these last few days," Mrs. Obama, 60, wrote. "Every text, comment on social media, and beautiful tribute has brought us some light. It means so much to hear what a special woman she was to you all, as well. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you."

Last week, the grieving daughter remembered Robinson as her "rock," always being there for her, saying, "She was the same steady backstop for our entire family, and we are heartbroken to share she passed away today."

As grandmother to Malia and Sasha, Robinson was a constant presence at the White House during former President Barack Obama's administration, relocating from her native Chicago to support her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren. "Although she enforced whatever household rules we’d set for bedtime, watching TV, or eating candy," Mrs. Obama noted in a statement, "she made clear that she sided with her 'grandbabies' in thinking that their parents were too darn strict."

Robinson also notably expressed her desire to meet the pope during her time at the White House.

Barack Obama, 62, also shared his thoughts on social media following Robinson's passing. “There was and will be only one Marian Robinson," he wrote of his mother-in-law. "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."

Mrs. Obama recalled in 2022 how her mother would bake her birthday cakes every year, even during Barack Obama's presidency when they had their own chefs at the White House. "I remember getting to lick the mixer," she told Drew Barrymore during an appearance on her talk show in 2022.

The author of Becoming often shares photos and memories of Robinson for Mother's Day and her birthday on social media. "Happy birthday to the woman who taught me how to think for myself, use my voice, and show up authentically in this world," she wrote in 2021.

"Your belief that I mattered, even when I was just a little girl, led me to where I am today. Thank you for being the ultimate role model. Love you, mom!"

Mrs. Obama's father, Fraser Robinson, passed away in 1991.