Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon, the beloved mother of reality television matriarch Kris Jenner, has passed away at the age of 91. The news was shared by Jenner on Instagram, where she reflected on the deep connection she maintained with her mother throughout their lives. MJ died on Thursday, July 16, and her passing has left a profound void in the lives of Jenner and her family.
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In a candid episode of Jay Shetty’s On Purpose podcast, which aired in November, Kris spoke fondly of the close relationship she had with her mother. She described how they would communicate every day, sharing their thoughts and experiences. “I talk to her every day on the phone,” Jenner stated, illustrating the closeness that defined their bond.
Kris further elaborated on their daily interactions, noting the enjoyment they derived from watching television together. “We help each other with what we’re going to watch. She loves Dateline as much as I do,” she shared, adding a light-hearted account of how they would choose their evening viewing. MJ would often express her feelings, suggesting they watch something uplifting if she was feeling down.
Despite being in her nineties, MJ was fiercely independent, a trait that Kris admired deeply. The elder Shannon maintained her own home just a mile away from her daughter, insisting she was not ready to give up her autonomy. “I try to get her to move in with me, but she refuses,” Kris recounted, highlighting MJ’s desire to live on her own terms. Interestingly, the matriarch enjoyed spending part of her time in La Jolla, near San Diego, where she often sent her daughter beautiful snapshots of the ocean views from her home.
MJ Shannon was not only a dedicated mother but also a doting grandmother to Kris’s seven children: Kourtney, Kim, Khloé, Rob, Kendall, and Kylie. After MJ’s passing, Kris referred to her mother as “the heart of our family” in her heartfelt tribute. She expressed the emotional weight of their parting, stating, “There are no words that could ever capture what she has meant to me or the heartbreak of having to say goodbye.”
In her touching message, Kris recounted the invaluable lessons passed down to her by her mother. “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,” she wrote. This sentiment resonates not only with her immediate family but reflects the broader values that MJ instilled, shaping the family culture.
Kris continued her tribute by expressing her deep sense of loss, saying, “My heart is broken into a million pieces.” She acknowledged MJ’s sacrifices, the wisdom she shared, and the love she bestowed upon the family throughout her life. “When I look at my kids and my grandkids, I will forever see pieces of you in all of us,” Kris stated, highlighting the enduring legacy of her mother’s influence.
The heartfelt message concluded with an affirmation of love and gratitude for the life they shared. “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,” Kris wrote poignantly.
As the family faces the challenges of mourning, they will carry forward the values and memories that MJ left behind, ensuring that her spirit remains a guiding force in their lives. The bond between MJ and her family will endure, demonstrating the lasting impact of maternal love and support.