Amalija Knavs Photos Show Melania Trump’s Mother Over the Years

Former first lady Melania Trump paid an emotional tribute on social media to her later mother, Amalija Knavs, on Tuesday.

Posting on X, formerly Twitter, Melania told her followers on Tuesday night that her “beloved mother” had died and referred to her as always carrying herself with “grace, warmth, and dignity” and that she was “devoted” to her family.

The 78-year-old, originally from Slovenia, was often spotted with her daughter and son-in-law, former president Donald Trump. Amalija and her husband, Viktor, became U.S. citizens in 2018. Melania had sponsored their green card applications before that.

Donald also shared a message on his social media site Truth Social to say it was a “very sad night for the entire Trump family!!!”

He added: “[Amalija] was an incredible woman and will be missed far beyond words!” and shared an image of himself standing beside Knavs, smiling in the Oval Office.

Although no cause of death has been revealed, it was known that Knavs had been ill. Melania missed the New Year’s Eve celebration held by her husband at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, to be by her mother’s side. Donald shared the news in a speech, describing the situation as “a very tough one.”

Amalija was frequently seen at the White House during Donald’s term as the 45th president of the United States, from 2017 to 2021. For example, she was present at the 2018 ceremony where Melania debuted her initiative aimed at helping children—”Be Best.”

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Melania’s followers have often admired her fashion sense, which may be a legacy of her mother.

Amalija had previously worked in a clothing factory in the Slovenian town of Sevnica, while her husband worked as a car salesman. According to a 2016 profile of Melania Trump in The New Yorker, her mother worked in the factory from 1964 to 1997, and was responsible for “creating patterns for mass production.” She also made clothes for her daughters, Ines and Melania.

Melania said in a speech at the Republican National Convention in 2016: “My elegant and hardworking mother Amalija introduced me to fashion and beauty.”

Amalija was an advocate for her daughter and son-in-law, often traveling to and from the White House by helicopter.

Viktor dressed to compliment his wife, always pictured in a suit and tie alongside her.

Melania has received an outpouring of love and support from her followers following the news of her mother’s death.

One social media user said: “So sorry for your loss, she was a beautiful, strong woman and wildly proud of you. Sending your family all my love and prayers.”

Another added: “We’re sorry for your loss our beautiful FLOTUS. We pray that you receive strength during this difficult time as you mourn the loss of your mother. We love you!”

“My heart goes out to you Mrs. Trump, you will be in my prayers during this rough transition,” a third shared.