Amalija Knavs, the mother of former US First Lady Melania Trump, passed away at the age of 78.
Melania was notably absent from a recent Trump family Christmas photo that featured her husband, former President Donald Trump, and three of his five children, as she had been by her mother’s side in the hospital.
Former President Trump expressed his grief in a statement on Tuesday, saying, “It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved mother, Amalija. 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 measure and continue to honor and love her legacy.”
The cause of Amalija Knavs’ death was not disclosed by Melania Trump.
Melania and her father, Viktor Knavs, 79, had both been residing at Mar-a-Lago in recent years, where the former first lady and president also lived.
A source close to the family stated, “[Amalija] has an excellent relationship with Melania and with Barron. They love her. She is unselfish and takes care of the family. Melania has always been super good with her mom as well as Barron.”
The source highlighted the close bond between Barron, Melania’s son, and Amalija, noting that at times, Barron spent more time with his grandparents than with Melania or Donald Trump.
Melania’s parents originate from present-day Slovenia, where Melania was born in April 1970. Amalija, a former textile worker, and Viktor, a former car dealer, have been an integral part of Melania’s life.
