Kris Jenner is mourning the death of her beloved mother, Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon, it has been confirmed. Ms Shannon was 91 years old at the time of her passing, an event that has seen the TV personality and entrepreneur share a poignant message.
Jenner posted on Instagram on Thursday, stating that she and her family had “said goodbye to my beautiful Mommy MJ.” This announcement conveyed the deep personal loss experienced by the family.
A Mother’s Enduring Legacy
In her tribute, Jenner expressed that there were “no words that could ever capture what she has meant to me or the heartbreak of having to say goodbye.” She described her mother, MJ, as “the heart of our family,” highlighting the central role she played in their lives.
Jenner further detailed the profound impact of her mother’s teachings, noting that MJ had taught her “everything that truly matters.” This included lessons on how “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.”
The media personality, a mother of six, including prominent figures such as Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, Rob Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Kylie Jenner, reiterated MJ’s philosophy that “family is everything.” She explained that her mother had shown them “how to love unconditionally and how to find joy in the little moments,” and had taught her “how to face life’s challenges with resilience and faith.”
Jenner also shared her personal sorrow, stating that she would miss their daily talks and her mother’s laughter. She affirmed that her mother’s legacy would continue to live on through their family and their traditions.
Reflecting on her children and grandchildren, Jenner wrote, “When I look at my kids and my grandkids, I will forever see pieces of you in all of us.” She added that “there is not a part of me that isn’t shaped by you,” crediting her mother for her own actions: “And if I have done anything right in this world, it’s because I spent my life trying to live in a way that would make you proud.”
Life in the Public Eye and Entrepreneurial Spirit
Over the years, Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon made various appearances alongside Kris Jenner and other members of the Kardashian-Jenner clan. Her presence was noted on the reality shows “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” and “The Kardashians,” which chronicled the family’s life.
Additionally, MJ featured with the family on an episode of ABC’s “Celebrity Family Feud.” Her life began on July 26, 1934, and she pursued careers as both a model and an entrepreneur, demonstrating a diverse professional background.
Before the Kardashians launched their widely recognised Calabasas clothing boutique, Dash, and subsequently their own clothing lines, MJ had established her own clothing store. This business, named Shannon & Company, opened in 1980, according to reports.
Jenner previously spoke about her experience growing up in the store, recalling how she worked there with her mother during her younger years. This background highlights MJ’s enduring entrepreneurial spirit and her influence on her daughter.
Personal Resilience and Family Connections
Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon was married three times during her lifetime. Her first marriage, for example, lasted only four months, a detail that has been noted.
In 2017, Kim Kardashian shared a conversation she had with her grandmother. In this interaction, Kim Kardashian highlighted a similarity in their marital histories, observing, “We have a lot in common.” She further specified, “We both got married for two months once.”
MJ’s response to this observation was a reflective statement: “History repeats itself.” This exchange, shared in a video that has since been taken down, provided a glimpse into their shared experiences.
Beyond her personal relationships, MJ was also known as a two-time cancer survivor. She bravely battled both breast and colon cancer, demonstrating significant resilience throughout her life.
Jenner concluded her heartfelt Instagram tribute to her mother by writing, “I will forever thank God every single day for making you my mommy.” Her message conveyed profound gratitude and sorrow, stating, “My heart is broken into a million pieces… thank you for giving me the greatest childhood and oh what a beautiful blessed life… I love you forever Mommy. Thank you for giving us everything. ❤️”