Amalija Knavs, mother to former First Lady Melania Trump, passed away at the age of 78, leaving a significant void in the Trump family. Melania Trump announced the loss on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, expressing her profound sadness and highlighting her mother's exceptional character.
She described her mother as "a strong woman who always carried herself with grace, warmth, and dignity," emphasizing Amalija's unwavering devotion to her family.
Former President Donald Trump, during a New Year's Eve event at Mar-a-Lago, had mentioned his mother-in-law's grave illness, noting the difficult circumstances. He later paid tribute to her on his social media site, Truth Social, praising Amalija as an incredible woman whose departure deeply affected the family.
I always appreciated that Amalija put her family first. My condolences go out to Victor, Melania, Barron, and the entire Knavs and Trump families. God Rest Amalija’s soul. pic.twitter.com/Kr8h9dLRer — Andrew H. Giuliani (@AndrewHGiuliani) January 10, 2024
The Knavs family's roots trace back to Slovenia, then a part of Communist Yugoslavia, where Amalija worked as a textile worker. Alongside her husband, Viktor, she raised Melania in the small industrial town of Sevnica.
The couple later immigrated to the United States, becoming permanent residents and eventually U.S. citizens in 2018. Their naturalization process, sponsored by their adult daughter, came under scrutiny considering the Trump administration's critical stance on family-based migration.
Despite their daughter's high-profile marriage and role, Amalija and Viktor maintained a discreet presence, often seen but seldom engaging with the media. They were regular figures alongside the Trump family, accompanying them on various trips and residing in the United States to maintain close contact.
Melania's journey from Slovenia to the First Lady of the United States was significantly supported by her parents, with her strength and values reflecting the upbringing and support provided by Amalija and Viktor.
The news of Amalija Knavs' passing is not just a personal loss for the Trump family but also marks the end of a chapter for a family that has been central to American political discourse.
Amalija's life, though maintained away from the limelight, symbolized the immigrant journey intertwined with the evolving American narrative. Melania's tribute, filled with affection and respect, underscores the profound impact her mother had on her life and the legacy she leaves behind - a legacy of resilience, grace, and familial devotion.
