Barack Obama's Grandmother Passes Away

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Barack Obama's grandmother Madelyn Dunham has sadly passed away just one day before the US Presidential election.

Obama announced the news in a joint statement with his sister Maya Soetoro-Ng.

They said: “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. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation to any worthy organization in search of a cure for cancer.”

Obama was clearly emotional as he later spoke about Dunham during a rally in Charlotte, Carolina.

With tears running down his face he called her “was one of those quiet heroes that we have all across America.”

He added: "They're not famous. Their names aren't in the newspapers. But each and every day they work hard. They sacrifice for their children and their grandchildren. They aren't seeking the limelight. All they try to do is just do the right thing."