The Kardashian-Jenner family is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished members. Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon, the mother of Kris Jenner and the beloved matriarch of the family, passed away at the age of 91.
Kris Jenner confirmed the heartbreaking news through an emotional Instagram tribute, honoring her mother’s lifelong devotion to family, resilience, and unconditional love.
Over the years, MJ became a familiar face to viewers of “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” and “The Kardashians,” where her warmth, humor, and wisdom made her a fan favorite.
Kris Jenner Announces Mother’s Passing
Kris Jenner shared the news of her mother’s death on Thursday, revealing the deep loss felt across the family.
In her tribute, Jenner described MJ as the heart of the family and reflected on the values that shaped generations of the Kardashian-Jenner household. She 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. My mom was the heart of our family.”
Jenner explained that her mother taught the family the importance of unconditional love, kindness, resilience, and cherishing every moment together. She added:
“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. She taught us that family is everything. She showed us how to love unconditionally and how to find joy in the little moments. She showed me how to face life’s challenges with resilience and faith.”
The heartfelt message ended with a personal letter thanking MJ for every sacrifice, every lesson, and every memory. Jenner shared that her mother’s influence would continue through her children, grandchildren, family traditions, and the values she passed down over the years.
Mary Jo Shannon’s Life and Family
Born Mary Jo Campbell on July 26, 1934, MJ experienced several important chapters throughout her life.
She first married her high school sweetheart, although the marriage ended just two months later. In 1954, she married Robert “Bob” True Houghton. The couple welcomed Kris Jenner in 1955, followed by daughter Karen Houghton in 1958. Their marriage ended after seven years.
MJ later married businessman Harry Shannon, who helped raise Kris Jenner and Karen Houghton in San Diego. During that time, MJ operated a children’s clothing store, where she became known for her strong work ethic and dedication to both family and business. Harry Shannon passed away in 2003.
A Familiar Face on Television
Mary Jo Shannon became well known to television audiences through regular appearances on “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” and later “The Kardashians.” Her calm personality and close bond with every generation of the family often created memorable moments on screen.
One storyline revealed that MJ had survived both colon cancer and breast cancer. In her later years, she also dealt with health issues related to the long-term effects of cancer treatments.
The series also captured lighter moments from her life. In one episode, MJ joked that she had little appetite unless she took her “medication” first before encouraging Kris Jenner to enjoy marijuana gummies together. The pair spent time eating muffins, chips, and guacamole while chatting at home, creating one of the show’s memorable family scenes.
Another emotional conversation featured Kris Jenner interviewing her mother about life. During the discussion, Jenner asked, “What’s your biggest fear?”
MJ responded:
“I try not to fear.”
She then turned the question back to her daughter. Kris Jenner became emotional before answering:
“I don’t want to say it. I can’t believe I’m crying. … Just, losing someone.”
The exchange gained renewed attention following MJ’s passing because it reflected the close relationship between mother and daughter.
Kim Pays Tribute to Her Grandmother
Following Kris Jenner’s announcement, Kim Kardashian shared her own emotional message remembering her grandmother.
Before posting the tribute, Kim addressed criticism over a social media post showing her and Khloé Kardashian drinking tequila on a boat shortly after news of MJ’s death became public. She explained:
“This post was scheduled a few days ago before we lost MJ, so its timing came right alongside her passing. I’ve been by my mom and grandma’s side this past week, and my heart is completely with my family right now. We love and miss her so deeply, and in the days ahead, we’ll be focusing on celebrating her beautiful life.”
Kim later honored her grandmother with a heartfelt message, writing:
“My sweet Grandma MJ, my best friend, my gossip buddy, my forever twin … You taught all of us the importance of family, and those values are something we’ll carry with us forever!!!!! You were the woman who showed me what it meant to be a hardworking businesswoman. You gave me my very first job at your store in San Diego and taught me lessons about work ethic, strength, and confidence that I’ve carried with me ever since.”
She continued by describing MJ as her safe place and the family’s true matriarch before adding:
“You truly were the matriarch of our family, and your love is woven into all of us. I know you’re at peace now. Give Papa Harry, Aunt Karen, and my dad a hug for me. You will always be a part of me, I love you soooooo much and I will miss you forever and ever. … YOU ARE THE BEST OF US!!!”
A Difficult Time for Family
Mary Jo Shannon’s death comes during an especially emotional period for the Kardashian-Jenner family.
Just two weeks before her passing, longtime bodyguard Mason Haynes died in a traffic accident at the age of 52. Haynes had served as a close protection officer for Kris Jenner and several members of the Kardashian-Jenner family, making his loss another significant tragedy for those close to the family.
Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon leaves behind a lasting legacy built on family, compassion, perseverance, and strength.
Across decades, she remained a central figure in the lives of Kris Jenner, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, and the extended Kardashian-Jenner family. Through her television appearances, personal values, and unwavering support for her loved ones, MJ became much more than a familiar face on reality television.
Her influence continues through the traditions, memories, and life lessons shared by the generations she helped shape, ensuring her legacy will remain an important part of the family’s story.
