Kris Jenner Mourns the Death of Her Mother Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon at 91
Kris Jenner has announced the passing of her beloved mother, Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon, at the age of 91. The matriarch of the Kardashian‑Jenner family died on Thursday, July 16, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and family devotion.
Jenner shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, writing: “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. 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.”
A Life of Strength and Love
MJ Shannon was born Mary Jo Campbell and lived a life marked by resilience. After her separation from Kris’s father, Robert Houghton, she married businessman Harry Shannon, with whom she shared 40 years until his tragic death in a car accident in 2003.
She was not only a guiding force in Kris’s life but also a familiar presence to fans, appearing regularly on Keeping Up with the Kardashians and other family reality shows. In 1980, MJ founded Shannon & Co., a children’s boutique in San Diego, where even a young Kim Kardashian was known to playfully count money on the shop floor.
Tributes from Kris Jenner
In her tribute, Kris reflected on her mother’s wisdom and unconditional love: “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. Mom, thank you for every sacrifice you made, every piece of wisdom you shared, and every moment you loved us so completely.”
Jenner added that MJ’s influence will live on through her children and grandchildren: “When I look at my kids and my grandkids, I will forever see pieces of you in all of us. There is not a part of me that isn’t shaped by you. My heart is broken into a million pieces… thank you for giving me the greatest childhood and oh what a beautiful blessed life.”
A Legacy That Endures
MJ Shannon’s life was defined by her devotion to family and her ability to find joy in everyday moments. Her presence on the Kardashian‑Jenner reality shows made her a beloved figure to fans, but to her family, she was the cornerstone of their values and traditions.
As Kris Jenner and her family mourn, they celebrate MJ’s enduring legacy of love, kindness, and resilience — qualities that continue to shape the family’s story and inspire millions around the world.
Compile from various source