On Tuesday, the former First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump, announced the passing of her mother, Amalija Knavs, on social media. Mrs. Knavs was 78 years old.
In a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, Mrs. Trump expressed her deep sadness at the loss of her mother, describing her as a “strong woman who always carried herself with grace, warmth, and dignity.” She further stated that Mrs. Knavs was “entirely devoted to her husband, daughters, grandson, and son-in-law,” and that her family would “miss her beyond measure” and “continue to honor and love her legacy.”
The news of Mrs. Knavs’s passing comes after months of speculation about her health. Sources close to the family had reported that she had been “very ill” in late 2023 and that Mrs. Trump had been by her side throughout her illness.
It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved mother, Amalija.
— MELANIA TRUMP (@MELANIATRUMP) January 10, 2024
Amalija Knavs was a strong woman who always carried herself with grace, warmth, and dignity. She was entirely devoted to her husband, daughters, grandson, and son-in-law. We will miss her beyond…
Key Points
- Amalija Knavs, mother of former First Lady Melania Trump, passed away at the age of 78.
- Mrs. Knavs was reportedly “very ill” in late 2023.
- Mrs. Trump announced her mother’s death on social media, expressing her deep sadness and love for her.
- Mrs. Knavs was a close confidante and supporter of her daughter throughout her life.
- She and her husband, Viktor Knavs, both became U.S. citizens in 2018.
A Life of Family and Dedication
Mrs. Knavs was born in Slovenia in 1945 and worked as a textile worker before marrying Viktor Knavs in 1967. The couple had two daughters, Melania and Ines, and remained married until Mr. Knavs’s passing in 2020.
Mrs. Knavs was a devoted mother and grandmother, and she played a significant role in raising Melania Trump. She and her husband moved to the United States in 2005 to be closer to their daughter and grandson, Barron Trump.
In recent years, Mrs. Knavs had maintained a relatively low profile, though she was known to be a close confidante of her daughter. She was reportedly a source of support and advice for Mrs. Trump during her time as First Lady.
A Legacy of Love and Family
The passing of Mrs. Knavs is a loss not only for her family but also for those who knew and loved her. She will be remembered for her strength, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family.
As Mrs. Trump wrote in her statement, “Amalija was a pillar of strength, an amazing mother, and a loving grandmother. We will miss her dearly, but we know she is now at peace.”
Beyond the Headlines
Amalija’s passing transcends the realm of political headlines. It marks the loss of a mother, a wife, and a grandmother whose kindness and resilience shaped the lives of those closest to her.
While details about her cause of death and funeral arrangements remain private, there’s no doubt that her absence will leave a void in the Trump family.
Remembering Amalija
News of Amalija’s passing prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the political spectrum. Former political figures, public personalities, and everyday citizens alike offered their sympathies to the Trump family.
On Truth Social, Donald Trump described Amalija as “an incredible woman, and will be missed far beyond words!” These messages, tinged with both respect and sadness, illustrate the impact that Amalija Knavs had beyond the glare of the political spotlight.
Looking Ahead
As the Trump family navigates this period of grief, it’s important to remember that their experience is shared by countless families who grieve the loss of loved ones. Amalija Knavs’ story, while intertwined with the complexities of public life, ultimately resonates with the universal human experience of loss, love, and family.
Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the values she instilled, offering a reminder of the enduring power of family bonds even in the face of unimaginable loss.
