Jeff Bezo mourns the loss of his mother
Jeff Bezos, the co-founder of Amazon, has announced the passing of his mother, Jackie Bezos, at the age of 78. According to an Instagram post by Jeff, Jackie passed away peacefully in Miami, surrounded by her loved ones.
Jackie Bezos, born Jackie Jorgensen (later Gise) on December 29, 1946, in Washington, D.C., played a significant role in Jeff's life and career. She provided the initial investment to launch Amazon.com and was a crucial supporter during its early days.
Born as a teenager and becoming a mother at the tender age of 17, Jackie's life took an early turn towards family. After a short marriage to Jeff's biological father, she went on to return to college as an adult, earning a Bachelor of Arts with High Honors in Psychology in 1991.
In her later years, Jackie became a philanthropist, co-founding and presiding over the Bezos Family Foundation, which supports education and early childhood development programmes.
Jackie's passing was due to complications from Lewy body dementia (LBD), a progressive neurological disorder that affects cognitive and motor functions. She was diagnosed with LBD around five years ago.
In his tribute, Jeff described Jackie as a deeply loving and selfless mother who gave more than she ever asked for throughout her life. He remembered her fight with dignity and courage.
Jeff also mentioned that he will carry his mother with him forever in his heart and that she felt their love in her final moments. Jackie's love extended not only to Jeff but also to his sister and brother, whom she loved, protected, and nurtured.
Lewy body dementia is characterized by the buildup of Lewy bodies in the brain's nerve cells, leading to a range of symptoms including visual hallucinations, Parkinson's disease symptoms, and dementia.
The Bezos Family Foundation, which Jackie co-founded, continues to support various educational and early childhood development programmes. Jackie's legacy will live on through her contributions to her family and charitable work.
[1] Bezos Family Foundation [2] Jeff Bezos' Instagram post [3] The Washington Post obituary [4] Mayo Clinic information on Lewy body dementia [5] Alzheimer's Association information on Lewy body dementia
"Despite the overwhelming grief, Jeff Bezos finds solace in honoring his mother's legacy by immersing himself in philanthropic work, specifically entertainment projects that highlight the impact of childhood development programs and perhaps even the plight of those battling diseases like Lewy body dementia, a condition his mother experienced."
"Moved by Jeff's touching tribute on Instagram, fans and celebrities express their heartfelt condolences, acknowledging that Jackie's life and contributions were indeed an inspiration and will continue to entertain and inspire future generations."
