Kris Jenner has shared the sorrowful news of her mother’s passing, Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon, who passed away at the age of 91 on July 16. The announcement came via an emotional post on Instagram, where Kris expressed the deep loss felt by the family, describing MJ as the cornerstone of their family unit.
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Shortly after the announcement, Kim Kardashian, known for her work with SKIMS, took to Instagram to share a collection of picturesque lakeside holiday snaps featuring her children. The timing of this post coincided with the news of her grandmother’s death, leading to mixed reactions from followers online. Kim, who is 45 years old, clarified that the post had been scheduled days before the news broke, indicating that her thoughts were firmly with her family during this challenging time.
Accompanying her “lake life” photo series, Kim included images of herself enjoying moments with her children, including her sons Saint, 10, and Psalm, 7, as well as her daughter Chicago, 8, along with her niece, Dream Kardashian, 9, and True Thompson, 8. Family activities captured in the post included speedboating, wakesurfing, and even a bike ride along a scenic pathway, further emphasising the familial bonds that MJ championed.
In light of the backlash from some social media users regarding the post’s timing, Kim took the opportunity to clarify her emotional state. She stated, “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 mum and grandma’s side this past week, and my heart is completely with my family right now.” Kim expressed her family’s collective grief, stating they would be focusing on celebrating MJ’s life in the days ahead.
Kris Jenner’s heartfelt tribute in her Instagram post included poignant reflections on the lessons MJ imparted to her family: love for one another, kindness, and the importance of cherishing every moment. Kris wrote, “My mom was the heart of our family,” adding that no words could fully capture the depth of her love and the heartbreak of losing her mother. She emphasised that MJ had taught them that family is paramount and that they should find joy in everyday moments.
Further expressing her appreciation, Kris reflected on her mother’s sacrifices and the eternal influence MJ will have on her descendants. “When I look at my kids and my grandkids, I will forever see pieces of you in all of us,” she wrote. “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.”
Kim Kardashian also paid homage to her beloved grandmother in a separate tribute, calling her “my best friend, my gossip buddy, my forever twin.” Sharing a series of photographs from her childhood alongside more recent moments, she conveyed the deep connection and love she felt for MJ. “I know you’re at peace now,” Kim added, illustrating the sense of closure she wished for her family.
The Kardashian-Jenner clan collectively mourned MJ’s loss, with sisters Khloé, Kourtney Kardashian Barker, and Kylie Jenner each sharing tributes on their Instagram Stories, celebrating the matriarch’s life and her enduring legacy.
Kendall Jenner has yet to make a public statement regarding MJ’s passing, leaving fans hopeful for a heartfelt tribute in due course. In the meantime, the family appears to be rallying together, united in their grief and in celebrating the life of the woman who was the foundation of their family.
As they navigate this difficult time, the Kardashian-Jenner family continues to uphold the values instilled by MJ—fostering love, kindness, and togetherness that she epitomised throughout her life.