Melania Trump’s Heartfelt Eulogy Honors Mother, Amalija Knavs, as a “Ray of Light”
In a moving and deeply personal eulogy, former First Lady Melania Trump paid tribute to her beloved mother, Amalija Knavs, during a somber funeral service held at The Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea, close to the family’s Mar-a-Lago estate. With her husband, former President Donald Trump, by her side, Melania eloquently expressed the profound bond she shared with her mother, who passed away at 78 after battling an undisclosed illness.
A Eulogy Radiating Love and Gratitude:
With tears welling in her eyes, Melania described her mother as a radiant and joyous presence in her life, someone who brought comfort and solace even in the darkest of times. She spoke of the unbreakable bond they shared, a connection that transcended words and brought them closer together. Melania fondly recalled her mother’s unwavering support and celebration of their family’s triumphs, as well as her unwavering presence during difficult times. She vividly remembered the laughter-filled travels they took together, the effortless conversations that flowed with grace and charm.
A Mother’s Love and Enduring Legacy:
Melania’s eulogy was a testament to the profound impact her mother had on her life. She spoke of the lessons she learned from her mother, the values she instilled in her, and the unconditional love that shaped her upbringing. With a heavy heart, Melania bid farewell to her beloved mother, expressing her eternal gratitude for the love and guidance she received throughout her life. She stepped down from the pulpit, her emotions palpable, and gently placed her fingers on her mother’s casket, a final gesture of affection and remembrance.
A Private Service Filled with Notable Attendees:
The private funeral service for Amalija Knavs drew a number of notable guests, including two of Donald Trump’s children from previous marriages, Tiffany Trump and Ivanka Trump, accompanied by her husband, Jared Kushner. Republican U.S. Senators Rick Scott of Florida and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina were also in attendance, paying their respects to the former First Lady’s mother.
A Solemn Procession and Final Farewell:
As the hearse carrying Amalija Knavs’ coffin arrived at the church, Melania Trump and her father, Viktor Knavs, led a somber procession up to the church, followed by former President Donald Trump and their son, Barron. The coffin was then carried into the church, where a private service was held to honor the life of Amalija Knavs.
After the service, a priest waved an urn of incense, and a cross was held high as the coffin was carried out of the church. Melania Trump and her father walked behind the coffin, followed by Donald Trump and their son, Barron. The former president and first lady exchanged pleasantries with the priest before departing from the church.
Amalija Knavs: A Life Remembered:
Amalija Knavs, born in Slovenia, raised Melania and her older sister, Ines, in the rural industrial town of Sevnica during a time when Slovenia was under Communist rule as part of Yugoslavia. She worked as a textile worker and homemaker, while her husband, Viktor Knavs, was a chauffeur before becoming a car dealer.
Melania, born Melanija, attended high school in the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, and later changed her name to Melania Knauss when she began her modeling career. She moved to New York in 1996 and met Donald Trump in 1998.
Melania sponsored her parents’ immigration to the United States, and they became citizens at a New York City courthouse in 2018, during Donald Trump’s presidency. Their lawyer stated that they applied for citizenship independently and did not receive any special treatment.
Donald Trump’s Absence from Court Proceedings:
While Melania Trump attended her mother’s funeral, Donald Trump was engaged in a defamation trial in New York to determine the compensation he owes former advice columnist E. Jean Carroll for publicly disparaging her after she accused him of rape.
Trump’s lawyers requested a one-day delay in the trial to allow him to attend the funeral, but the request was denied. Trump chose to skip Thursday’s court session to attend the funeral, rather than move it to Friday when the trial was not scheduled to be in session.
Call to Action:
In memory of Amalija Knavs, the former First Lady’s mother, consider making a donation to a charity that supports families and communities in need. Your generosity will honor her legacy and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.