Virginia McLaurin, centenarian who danced with Obama at White House, dies at 113
Virginia McLaurin, a woman who gained prominence after she danced with former US President Barack Obama, is dead.
McLaurin died on Monday after being under hospice for some days, according to a Facebook post published by her family.
“With heavy hearts we share that Ms. Virginia McLaurin passed away this morning (11/14/2022). She had been under hospice care for a few days,” the Facebook post reads.
“She lived an incredibly full life and appreciated all the love she received from people on this FB page and everywhere she went. (Before the pandemic that is — for the past few years she largely stayed inside.).”
On February 18 2016, the centenarian gained prominence when she visited Obama as part of activities to celebrate the annual Black History Month.
The video, which showed McLaurin dancing with Obama and his wife, Michelle, became an internet sensation.
Speaking about the White House visit, McLaurin, who was 106 years old at the time, said it was a dream fulfilled.
“I thought I would never live to get in the White House. And I tell you, I am so happy. A black president! A black wife! And I’m here to celebrate black history. Yeah, that’s what I’m here for,” she had said.