The Kardashian-Jenner family is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished members. Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon, the beloved mother of Kris Jenner, died at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy built on love, strength, and family.
Kris Jenner announced the heartbreaking news on Instagram on July 16, 2026. Her emotional message quickly drew support from fans and celebrities, many of whom remembered MJ as the warm and wise matriarch who often brought heart to the family’s television appearances. The cause of death has not been shared.
Jenner poured her heart into a touching tribute that reflected the deep bond she shared with her mother. “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,” Jenner wrote on Instagram.
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The 70-year-old media mogul described MJ as “the heart of the family” and thanked her for teaching lessons that shaped generations. Kris said her mother showed everyone the meaning of unconditional love, kindness, resilience, and putting family first. She also shared that she will forever miss their daily conversations, her mother’s smile, and the laughter they enjoyed together. Even through the pain, Kris found comfort in knowing MJ’s love will continue through the traditions and memories she created.
Mary Jo was much more than the mother of one of the world’s most famous managers. She was a steady presence behind the scenes, offering guidance, support, and comfort during every chapter of the family’s journey.
A Peek Into MJ’s Life
She first married her high school sweetheart before marrying Robert “Bob” True Houghton in 1954. Together, they welcomed daughters, Kris Jenner and Karen Houghton.
After divorcing Houghton when Kris was seven years old, MJ later married businessman Harry Shannon. He helped raise her daughters in San Diego, and the couple remained together for four decades until his death in 2003. Their long marriage became one of the strongest chapters of her life.
MJ also built an impressive career as a businesswoman. She owned and operated Shannon & Co., a children’s clothing boutique in San Diego, for more than 40 years. Her store became more than just a business because it introduced younger family members to the value of hard work.
Kim Kardashian has often shared that her grandmother gave her first job at the boutique. According to Kim, MJ taught her confidence, responsibility, and the work ethic that would later help shape her career. Those lessons stayed with her long after she left the family business.
MJ also faced serious health challenges with remarkable courage. She survived both breast cancer and colon cancer, earning the admiration of those around her. Although she dealt with lasting health complications in her later years, she remained a positive and loving presence until the end of her life.
The Beloved Grandmother Fans Came to Love
She continued making memorable appearances on The Kardashians, with her most recent moments airing during Season 6 in 2025. Fans enjoyed seeing the genuine connection she shared with her children and grandchildren, making her one of the most loved extended family members on the show.
Following news of her passing, Kim Kardashian shared an emotional tribute of her own. She called MJ “my best friend, my gossip buddy, my forever twin,” capturing the close relationship they shared over the years.