Melania Trump Says She's on 'Journey of Loss and Grief' After Death of 'Beloved' Mother Amalija Knavs

The former first lady's mother died on Jan. 9 at the age of 78

Melania Trump is remembering her mother Amalija Knavs after her death.

The former first lady shared a photo of Knavs on Instagram on Sunday as she thanked her supporters for all the well-wishes that she and her family have received in the days since Knavs died on Jan. 9. She was 78.

“On behalf of my family, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude for the love and support that you have showered upon us throughout this journey of loss and grief,” Trump, 53, wrote in the post. “We will cherish the beautiful memories of my beloved mother, and forever keep her light in our hearts.”

The post comes days after Trump delivered the eulogy at her mother’s funeral in Palm Beach, Florida, on Thursday. She was joined at the service by husband Donald Trump and their son Barron. Tiffany Trump, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner also were in attendance.

The Associated Press reported that Melania said of her mother in the eulogy, “In her presence, the world seemed to shimmer with radiance and joy. Our bond was unbreakable.”

Elsewhere in the speech, she called her mother a "ray of light in the darkest days," and spoke about their effortless conversations. Knavs had been living at the Trumps' private Mar-a-Lago resort since the couple left the White House in 2021.

“Rest in peace my beloved mother,” Melania closed her remarks. The AP reports that Melania touched her fingers to her lips and placed them on Knavs' casket after ending the eulogy.

Related: Amalija Knavs, a Longtime Patternmaker, ‘Introduced’ Daughter Melania Trump to Fashion in Small-Town Slovenia

Melania announced her mother's death in a statement shared on X (formerly known as Twitter) earlier this month. "It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved mother, Amalija."

"Amalija Knavs was a strong woman who always carried herself with grace, warmth and dignity. She was entirely devoted to her husband, daughters, grandson and son-in-law. We will miss her beyond measure and continue to honor and love her legacy," the statement continued.

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Knavs enjoyed a close relationship with Melania and Barron, 17.

"[Amalija] has an excellent relationship with Melania and with Barron," a source close to the family previously told PEOPLE. "They love her. She is unselfish and takes care of the family. Melania has always been super good with her mom as well as Barron."

The source added that Barron, in particular, had grown close to his grandmother. "There have been times when Barron has been with his grandparents more than with Melania, and a lot more than with Donald."

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