A Son's Heartfelt Goodbye: Jeff Bezos Pays Tribute to His Mother, Jacklyn
It's with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of Jacklyn "Jackie" Bezos, mother of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Jacklyn, aged 78, passed away peacefully at her home in Miami after a courageous five-year battle with Lewy body dementia. Her passing marks the end of a remarkable life filled with love, resilience, and dedication to her family.
Jeff Bezos took to Instagram on Thursday to share a touching tribute to his mother, remembering her final moments surrounded by loved ones. "After a long fight with Lewy body Dementia, she passed away today," Bezos wrote, adding that she was "surrounded by so many of us who loved her," including her children, grandchildren, and his father. His partner, Lauren Sanchez Bezos, also shared her husband’s post with a broken heart emoji.
Remembering Jacklyn Bezos: A Life of Strength and Devotion
Jacklyn's life story is one of incredible strength and unwavering devotion. She gave birth to Jeff in 1964, while still a teenager herself. As a young, single mother, she worked tirelessly to provide for her son, balancing a job at a bank with night school classes. She famously chose her classes based on which professors would allow her to bring young Jeff along, juggling textbooks and baby essentials.
In 1968, Jacklyn married Miguel (Mike) Bezos, who became a lifelong partner and father figure to Jeff. Mike adopted Jeff, then four years old, and Jeff has often referred to him as his "natural father." The Bezos Family Foundation highlighted Jacklyn's battle with Lewy body dementia, stating that she faced it "with the same dignity and courage that shaped every aspect of her life."
The Bezos Family Foundation: A Lasting Legacy
Jacklyn's impact extended beyond her immediate family. In 2000, she and Mike established the Bezos Family Foundation, a philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting education and early learning initiatives. Her work with the foundation, particularly the Vroom initiative and the Bezos Scholars Program, aimed to improve the lives of children and students around the world.
Lewy body dementia (LBD) is a type of progressive dementia that leads to a decline in mental abilities, visual hallucinations, and movement difficulties. It's important to raise awareness about this condition and support those affected by it.
Jacklyn Bezos leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and dedication. She is survived by her husband, Mike; her children, Jeff, Christina, and Mark; 11 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide those whose lives she touched. Our thoughts are with the Bezos family during this difficult time.
The Bezos Family Foundation concluded their tribute with a quote from Jacklyn: "Together, we can change the trajectory of an entire generation. We are not just building brains – we are building the future. Each of us has a role to play, and it will take all of us to really make a difference." Her words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in education and supporting future generations.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Bezos Family Foundation in Jacklyn's name. This would continue her legacy of supporting education and children's development.
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