Madelyn Dunham (1922-2008)

Barack Obama's grandmother Madelyn Dunham died this morning at the age of 86.

This is a terrible loss for Obama, and my thoughts go out to his family. It is quite fortunate that he was able to visit her last week and say his goodbyes. "Toot", as he calls her, lived a long and full life in which her daughter became a respected anthropologist and her grandson became a viable candidate for President of the United States. Barack and his sister released this joint statement:

It is with great sadness that we announce that our grandmother, Madelyn Dunham, has died peacefully after a battle with cancer. She was the cornerstone of our family, and a woman of extraordinary accomplishment, strength, and humility. She was the person who encouraged and allowed us to take chances.

She was proud of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and left this world with the knowledge that her impact on all of us was meaningful and enduring. Our debt to her is beyond measure.

Our family wants to thank all of those who sent flowers, cards, well-wishes, and prayers during this difficult time. It brought our grandmother and us great comfort. Our grandmother was a private woman, and we will respect her wish for a small private ceremony to be held at a later date.

You can see and hear Obama's grandmother briefly in this TV ad from earlier this year:



It's a shame that she didn't live to see what happens tomorrow, but maybe in her heart she already knew the outcome. I guess it's our job to make sure the outcome is a good one.