Kris Jenner has announced the death of her mother, Mary Jo 'MJ' Shannon, at the age of 91. The 70-year-old reality TV star and businesswoman shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram post on Thursday, describing her mother as 'the heart of our family.'
Emotional Tribute from Kris Jenner
Alongside a photograph of her mother, Kris wrote: 'Today, we said goodbye to my beautiful Mommy MJ. There are no words that could ever capture what she has meant to me or the heartbreak of having to say goodbye.' She added: 'My mom was the heart of our family. She taught me everything that truly matters… to love your family fiercely, to be kind, to show up for the people you love, and to never take a single moment together for granted.'
Kris thanked her mother for her unconditional love, wisdom, and sacrifices, writing: 'Mom, thank you for every sacrifice you made, every piece of wisdom you shared, and every moment you loved us so completely. I will miss our daily talks, your smile, your laughter.' She expressed that MJ's legacy would continue through her children and grandchildren: 'Our hearts are broken, but we find comfort knowing that love like yours never truly leaves us. Your love will live on in our family, in our traditions, in every moment we are together, and in every life you touched.'
Mary Jo Shannon's Life and Legacy
MJ, whose full name was Mary Jo Shannon, became a familiar face to millions through her appearances on Keeping Up with the Kardashians and later The Kardashians. She was a fan favorite for her warmth, humor, and close relationship with Kris and her famous grandchildren, including Kim, Kourtney, Khloe, Rob, Kendall, and Kylie.
Born in Arkansas in 1934, MJ was also a successful businesswoman, owning a children's clothing boutique in California before becoming known to television audiences. She was admired by her family for her resilience, having survived both breast and colon cancer, and remained a central figure in the Kardashian-Jenner family throughout her life.
Outpouring of Tributes
Following the announcement, tributes poured in from fans across social media, with many remembering MJ's memorable appearances on the family's reality shows. The Kardashian-Jenner family has not released further details about funeral arrangements at this time.
