All About Kris Jenner’s Late Sister Karen Houghton

Kris Jenner, prominent figure from the reality TV show ‘The Kardashians’, recently faced a heartbreaking loss with the passing of her beloved sister, Karen Houghton, in March 2024. Kris, well-known for her role on the popular TV series and as the matriarch of the Kardashian-Jenner clan, shared the sad news with her fans through a touching Instagram post, describing Karen as a beautiful soul inside out – the kindest, most sensitive, and vulnerable person. As the public mourned alongside Kris, her sister’s sudden departure shed light on the close-knit relationship they shared.

The bond between Kris and Karen traces back to their childhood in San Diego in the late 1950s. Raised by their mother, Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon, and father, Robert Houghton, the sisters leaned on each other for support through various family challenges. Kris opened up about their childhood struggles in her 2011 autobiography, highlighting the enduring connection she and Karen maintained despite their parent’s split when Kris was just seven years old. Their strong sisterly bond remained a central pillar in their lives throughout the years, sustaining them through thick and thin.

Karen, a mother herself, shared a daughter named Natalie Zettel with her ex-husband, Mark Zettel. Natalie, who has since embraced a career as a model and influencer, tied the knot in a picturesque beachside wedding in March 2025. Kris, alongside other family members, rejoiced in Natalie’s happiness, celebrating the joyous occasion surrounded by love and laughter. Despite Kris’ public persona through her involvement in ‘Keeping Up With the Kardashians’, Karen opted to live a more private life away from the limelight, maintaining a low profile until a rare social media appearance in 2019 alongside Kris and other family members.

The sudden loss of Karen in 2024, at the age of 65, came as a devastating blow to Kris and her family. Karen’s cause of death was reported as cardiac arrest and sudden cardiac arrhythmia, with Type 2 diabetes listed as an underlying secondary factor, compounded by her struggles with bipolar disorder. Kris’s outpouring of grief on social media echoed the deep connection she shared with her late sister, emphasising the fragility and preciousness of life. As she honoured Karen’s memory and compassionate spirit, Kris paid tribute to their cherished moments together, holding onto the memories that formed the fabric of their sisterly bond.

Natalie, Karen’s daughter, also expressed her profound loss and love for her mother, describing her as kind, sweet, loving, giving, and caring. The void left by Karen’s absence resonated not only with Kris and Natalie but also with other family members like Kim Kardashian West, who shared intimate childhood snapshots with her aunt Karen on social media as a tribute. These reflections painted a poignant picture of the enduring impact Karen had on her family, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories that will be forever treasured.

In the wake of Karen’s passing, the Kardashian-Jenner family united in grief to honour her life and legacy, finding solace in the memories they shared. While Kris continues to navigate life without her sister by her side, the profound impact of Karen’s presence lingers on, a testament to the enduring power of family bonds and the resilience found in shared love and support. As fans and well-wishers extend their condolences to Kris and her family during this difficult time, the legacy of Karen Houghton stands as a reminder of the enduring strength found in family ties that withstand the test of time and tribulations.

As the Kardashian-Jenner family grapples with the loss of Karen, they draw strength from the memories and moments that defined their shared journey, honouring her spirit and the love she brought into their lives. Kris’s heartfelt messages and tributes underscore the deep connection she shared with her sister, reflecting on the impact Karen’s presence had on their family dynamic. Through grief and remembrance, the Kardashian-Jenner clan stands united, cherishing the legacy of Karen Houghton and the enduring bond that transcends time and space, anchoring them in a shared history of love, resilience, and cherished moments.