Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon, mother of Kris Jenner, died on July 16 at a Los Angeles hospital due to acute cardiopulmonary arrest. Other contributing factors to her death included acute respiratory failure and metastatic lung cancer, according to a death certificate obtained by Us Weekly.
Shannon, 91, had been battling lung cancer for months leading up to her passing. No autopsy was performed following her death. She was cremated on July 23.
Kris Jenner announced her mother’s death on July 16 via an Instagram post, describing Shannon as “the heart of [their] family.” Jenner wrote that her mother taught them “how to love unconditionally and how to find joy in the little moments,” and how to face challenges with resilience and faith. She also thanked Shannon for her sacrifices, wisdom, and unconditional love.
Members of the Kardashian-Jenner family, including Kylie Jenner, Kourtney Kardashian, and Kim Kardashian, shared tributes to their grandmother. Kim Kardashian initially faced criticism for a social media post about a vacation on the day of Shannon’s death but followed up with a heartfelt tribute to her “sweet Grandma MJ,” whom she called her “best friend” and “forever twin.” Kardashian highlighted her grandmother's emphasis on family values and her example as a hardworking businesswoman.