In Remembrance: Melania Trump Bids Farewell to Her Beloved Mother, Amalija Knavs
In a solemn gathering at The Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea in Palm Beach, Florida, former First Lady Melania Trump stood before a congregation to honor the life of her mother, Amalija Knavs, who passed away at the age of 78. With her husband, former President Donald Trump, seated nearby, Melania delivered a moving eulogy that painted a vivid portrait of a mother whose presence illuminated even the darkest of days.
A Ray of Light in Life’s Journey
Melania’s words resonated with a deep sense of love and gratitude as she recalled the unwavering support and unconditional love her mother had always bestowed upon her. She spoke of Amalija’s remarkable ability to transform moments of adversity into opportunities for growth and celebration.
“In her presence, the world seemed to shimmer with radiance and joy,” Melania said, her voice filled with emotion. “Our bond was unbreakable.”
A Legacy of Love and Unwavering Support
Melania painted a vivid portrait of a mother who reveled in her family’s triumphs and stood steadfastly by their side during challenging times. She fondly remembered the laughter-filled travels they shared, the conversations that flowed effortlessly, and the grace and charm that characterized her mother’s every interaction.
“Rest in peace, my beloved mother,” Melania concluded, her voice heavy with sorrow as she bid her final farewell.
A Private Ceremony Amidst Notable Attendees
The private funeral service, held at the same church where Melania and Donald Trump exchanged their wedding vows in 2005, drew a select group of attendees, including Tiffany Trump and Ivanka Trump, the former president’s children from previous marriages, along with Ivanka’s husband, Jared Kushner. Notable political figures, such as Republican U.S. Senators Rick Scott of Florida and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, also paid their respects.
A Final Farewell
As the hearse carrying Amalija’s coffin arrived at the church, Melania, dressed in a black dress and sunglasses, and her father, Viktor Knavs, led a somber procession up the church steps, followed by Donald Trump and their son, Barron. After the service, a priest blessed the coffin with incense, and it was carried out of the church, followed by Melania, her father, and then Donald Trump and Barron.
A Life Remembered: Amalija Knavs’ Journey
Amalija Knavs, born in the rural industrial town of Sevnica, Slovenia, during Communist rule, lived a life marked by resilience and unwavering devotion to her family. As a textile worker and homemaker, she raised Melania and her older sister, Ines, instilling in them the values of hard work, compassion, and determination. Her husband, Viktor, worked as a chauffeur before becoming a car dealer, providing for his family with unwavering dedication.
A Mother’s Influence: Melania’s Path
Melania, born Melanija, attended high school in the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, before embarking on a successful modeling career, changing her name to Melania Knauss. She settled in New York in 1996 and met Donald Trump in 1998. The couple married in 2005 and welcomed their son, Barron, in 2006.
During her time as First Lady, Melania sponsored her parents’ immigration to the United States, and they became citizens in 2018. Her mother, Amalija, made occasional appearances at the White House, including a notable event where Melania debuted her “Be Best” public awareness campaign aimed at helping children.
A Time of Mourning and Reflection
As Donald Trump attended a defamation trial in New York, Melania chose to honor her mother’s memory by attending the funeral, opting to skip the court session rather than postpone the service or move it to a day when the trial was not scheduled.
The passing of Amalija Knavs marks a profound loss for the Trump family, and the private funeral service provided an intimate space for them to gather and pay tribute to a remarkable woman whose life was a testament to love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her loved ones.