Michelle Obama Shares Thanks for the Love Shown Since Her Mother Marian's Death: 'It's Brought Us Light'

Marian Robinson, who died on May 31 at the age of 86, lived with the Obamas during their time in the White House

Michelle Obama is expressing gratitude for how the nation responded to the death of her mother, Marian Robinson, at age 86.

The former first lady took to X (formerly known as Twitter) on Monday, June 3, to thank people for the kindness she's received in the days since Robinson died.

"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," Michelle, 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."

Related: Michelle Obama’s Mother, Marian Robinson, Dead at 86

Last week, Michelle remembered Robinson as her "rock," always being there for her. "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 fixture at the White House throughout former President Barack Obama's presidency, leaving her native Chicago to join her daughter, son-in-law, and grandkids.

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"Although she enforced whatever household rules we’d set for bedtime, watching TV, or eating candy," Michelle said in a statement, "she made clear that she sided with her 'grandbabies' in thinking that their parents were too darn strict." She also famously made a point of asking to meet the pope throughout her tenure at the White House.

Barack, 62, shared his own statement on social media following Robinson's death. “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."

Michelle recalled in 2022 how Robinson made her birthday cakes every year, including throughout Barack's presidency when they had their own chefs in the White House. "I remember getting to lick the mixer," she told Drew Barrymore during an appearance on her talk show in 2022.

Related: All About Barack and Michelle Obama's 2 Daughters, Malia and Sasha Obama

The Becoming author routinely shares pictures 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!"

Michelle's father, Fraser Robinson, died in 1991.

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