Jackie Bezos, the beloved mother of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, died peacefully at her Miami home on August 14, 2025, at the age of 78. The matriarch was previously diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia back in 2020 and fought courageously against the progressive neurological disorder for five years.
The Bezos Family Foundation announced the sad news Thursday, sharing a photo of Jackie along with a lengthy tribute, saying she died peacefully at her Miami home. The foundation’s statement honored her life as one that embodied “the true meaning of grit and determination, kindness and service to others”.
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A Mother Who Shaped Amazon’s Origins
Born Jacklyn Gise on December 29, 1946, in New Mexico, Jackie Bezos played a pivotal role in launching what would become the world’s largest online retailer. She provided the initial investment to launch Amazon.com and was a philanthropist as co-founder of the Bezos Family Foundation.
Her influence on Jeff extended far beyond financial support. Jackie is portrayed as a single teen who balanced night school with infant care, a tenacity Jeff often credited for his own perseverance. This resilience became a cornerstone of Amazon’s relentless innovation culture, from its humble bookstore beginnings to its current status as a global technology powerhouse.
Philanthropic Legacy Through Education
Jackie Bezos dedicated much of her later life to educational philanthropy. Together with her husband Mike Bezos, she co-founded the Bezos Family Foundation, which focuses on supporting young people’s potential through education initiatives. The foundation champions the science of learning and its practical applications.
Her commitment to education remained unwavering throughout her life. The couple’s philanthropic efforts included substantial donations to civic engagement programs and leadership development for young people, reflecting Jackie’s belief in nurturing the next generation.
Family Tributes and Final Days
Jeff Bezos shared his grief on Instagram, revealing that his mother “passed away today, surrounded by so many of us who loved her — her kids, grandkids, and my dad”. He expressed gratitude that “she felt our love in those final moments” and promised to “hold her safe in my heart forever”.
The family praised her husband Mike for his unwavering devotion during Jackie’s battle with dementia. The tribute reflected on her life and legacy, calling her “the true meaning of grit and determination, kindness and service to others” — values she successfully passed on to her children.
Miami Home and Recent Years
In recent years, Jackie resided in Miami, where she and Mike purchased a mansion in Coral Gables in 2022. The city held special significance for the family, as Jeff spent part of his childhood there. Miami became a central gathering place for the Bezos family, especially during recent milestones including Jeff’s marriage to Lauren Sánchez earlier this year.
Jackie’s death comes at a time when Jeff continues his role as Amazon’s executive chairman, with his net worth surpassing $220 billion as of May 2025. Despite his tremendous success, he consistently credited his mother’s strength and determination as foundational to his achievements.
A Legacy That Continues
The Bezos Family Foundation will continue Jackie’s mission of supporting education and youth development. Her life story — from teenage mother to philanthropist — serves as an inspiration for countless families facing similar challenges.
“Although Jackie may be gone from our sight, her love remains with us always—a bright shining light that will never fade”, the family statement concluded, capturing the enduring impact of a remarkable woman who shaped one of the world’s most influential entrepreneurs.
What aspects of Jackie Bezos’s philanthropic work do you find most inspiring? Share your thoughts on how her legacy might continue to influence education initiatives and youth development programs.