Madelyn Dunham was the maternal grandmother of former U.S. President Barack Obama. Born on October 26, 1922, in Kansas, she played a significant role in Obama's upbringing. After her daughter, Ann Dunham, became a single mother, Madelyn and her husband, Stanley Dunham, helped raise Obama in Hawaii. Dunham worked as a bank vice president and was known for her strong work ethic and supportive nature. She was a significant influence in Obama's life, instilling values of hard work and education. Madelyn Dunham passed away on November 2, 2008, just days before the presidential election.