Marion Robinson, the first Black grandmother to live two terms in the White House, passed away in Chicago today at the age of 86. She was the first presidential in-law in generations to live in the White House after her daughter, Michelle Obama, became the first lady of the United States. However, Mrs. Robinson moved to Washington, D.C., to help raise her granddaughters, Malia and Sasha. “They’re dragging me with them, and I’m not that comfortable,” she told an interviewer when she left home, “but I’m doing exactly what you do. You do what has to be done.”
According to The Washington Post, “Mrs. Robinson’s role was helping granddaughters Malia and Sasha Obama adjust to life in the Washington D.C. bubble and maintain normalcy. She rode to school with the girls in Secret Service SUVs and tucked them in at night when their parents’ schedules kept them from home.”
Mrs. Robinson only appeared with the Obamas on holidays and for some cultural events, especially when the granddaughters were present. She didn’t grant interviews for the most part. She also didn’t speak much publicly, but that was by choice.
She was described by her children as a woman who spoke her mind but cherished her privacy.
Born Marion Lois Shields in Chicago on July 30, 1937. She was one of seven siblings. She attended two years of college but did not finish her degree due to financial issues. She married Fraser Robinson in her early 20s and became a stay-at-home mom. But it is one of the reasons she stressed education to Michelle and her brother Craig Robinson.
Mrs. Robinson picked up running in her 50s and won gold medals in the 50-meter and 100-meter races and the 1997 Illinois Senior Olympics.
She was beloved because she brought warmth, relatability, and the occasional wordless expression that spoke volumes to the national and international stage with a calm assurance of belonging. We will forever be grateful for her presence.
Our condolences to her family, who are especially heartbroken by her loss. President Barack Obama has shared this beautiful tribute to Mrs. Robinson from the family that gives a snapshot of the woman they loved.
