Kris Jenner's Mother Mary Jo Campbell Dies at 91, Family Pays Emotional Tribute
Mary Jo Campbell, the beloved mother of Kris Jenner and grandmother to the Kardashian-Jenner family, has died at the age of 91. Known affectionately as "MJ," she became a familiar face to millions through the family's reality television shows and was remembered by her children and grandchildren as the heart of their family.
Kris Jenner Announces the Loss of Her Mother
Kris Jenner shared the news of her mother's passing in an emotional social media post on Thursday.
"Today, we said goodbye to my beautiful Mommy MJ," Jenner wrote, describing her mother as someone who taught her the importance of unconditional love, resilience, faith and putting family above everything else.
The family did not immediately disclose a cause of death.
A Familiar Face on the Kardashians' Reality Shows
Mary Jo Campbell, also known as MJ Shannon, became a fan favorite after appearing on Keeping Up with the Kardashians, which premiered in 2007, and later on Hulu's The Kardashians.
Her warm personality, quick wit and honest advice earned her a loyal following. Throughout the years, viewers watched her share heartfelt moments with Kris Jenner and her grandchildren while often teasing the family about their lavish lifestyles.
She also spoke openly about surviving cancer twice, inspiring both her family and fans with her strength.
The Matriarch of the Kardashian-Jenner Family
Born in 1934, Mary Jo Campbell was the mother of Kris Jenner and Karen Houghton.
Karen Houghton died in March 2024 at the age of 65 following cardiac arrest, making Campbell's passing another significant loss for the family.
MJ was also the grandmother of Kourtney, Kim and Khloé Kardashian, as well as Kendall and Kylie Jenner, and a great-grandmother to the family's growing next generation.
Family Celebrated Her Milestone Birthdays
Mary Jo celebrated her 90th birthday during an episode of The Kardashians, where family members gathered for a floral-themed celebration in San Diego.
During the event, she said her greatest achievement in life was raising her two daughters.
Kris Jenner became emotional while speaking about the thought of losing her mother, calling MJ her "best friend." In response, MJ reassured her daughter that she was not going anywhere and joked about celebrating another birthday together.
The family also marked her 91st birthday with a garden-themed celebration.
Kim Kardashian Honors Her Grandmother
Kim Kardashian shared a heartfelt tribute, remembering MJ as "my best friend, my gossip buddy, my forever twin."
She credited her grandmother with teaching her the value of hard work after giving her her first job at a retail store in San Diego.
Kim said the lessons she learned from MJ about confidence, determination and business have stayed with her throughout her career.
A Lasting Legacy
For nearly two decades, Mary Jo Campbell was more than a supporting figure on reality television—she represented the close family bond at the center of the Kardashian-Jenner story.
Kris Jenner reflected on her mother's lasting influence, writing that she sees pieces of MJ in every member of the family and that everything she has accomplished was inspired by her mother's example.
As tributes continue to pour in, Campbell is being remembered not only as the family's matriarch but also as a woman whose love, resilience and wisdom shaped generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was Mary Jo Campbell?
Mary Jo Campbell, also known as MJ Shannon, was the mother of Kris Jenner and the grandmother of the Kardashian-Jenner family. She frequently appeared on the family's reality television shows.
How old was Mary Jo Campbell?
She died at the age of 91, just days before what would have been her 92nd birthday.
Did the family announce a cause of death?
No. The Kardashian-Jenner family did not immediately disclose the cause of her death.
Why was MJ well known to fans?
She appeared regularly on Keeping Up with the Kardashians and The Kardashians, where she became popular for her humor, wisdom and close relationship with her family.
How did Kim Kardashian remember her grandmother?
Kim Kardashian described MJ as her "best friend" and credited her with teaching her the importance of family, hard work and confidence while giving her her first job.
