**Jackie Bezos, Advocate for Education and Mother of Jeff Bezos, Passes Away at 78**
Jackie Bezos, a staunch supporter of her son Jeff Bezos and a prominent advocate for early childhood education, has passed away at the age of 78. She died at her home in Miami on Thursday, as confirmed by the Bezos Family Foundation. In a heartfelt tribute on social media, Jeff Bezos shared that his mother passed away “surrounded by so many of us who loved her,” noting that her death followed a prolonged battle with Lewy body dementia.
Jackie and her husband, Miguel, were the first investors in Amazon, contributing $245,573 in 1995 to support the startup that Jeff had warned might fail. Contrary to those early concerns, the investment proved to be immensely profitable, with their stake in Amazon reportedly worth as much as $30 billion by 2018.
In 2000, long before Jeff Bezos and Amazon embarked on their philanthropic journeys, Jackie and Miguel began funding educational initiatives through the Bezos Family Foundation. This foundation became one of the most recognized charitable organizations, distributing a portion of the wealth generated by the e-commerce giant. The foundation emphasizes Jackie’s belief in the importance of rigorous and inspired learning, which she believed could empower students from birth through high school.
The foundation has developed several programs, including Vroom, which provides parenting tips through an app, and the Bezos Scholars Program, which annually selects 17 young leaders from the U.S. and Africa for a leadership development program. Additionally, the foundation has supported hundreds of organizations focused on children and young adults, making a significant contribution of $185.7 million to the Aspen Institute in August 2024 to establish a new center dedicated to youth.
Jacklyn Marie Gise, known as Jackie, was born on December 29, 1946, in Virginia and raised in New Mexico. Her father, Lawrence Preston Gise, held a senior position at the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission. During her high school years in Albuquerque, Jackie became pregnant and married Theodore Jorgensen in 1963. They welcomed their son, Jeffrey Preston Jorgensen, shortly after. However, Jackie returned to her parents’ home and filed for divorce when Jeffrey was just 17 months old. Jorgensen later acknowledged his shortcomings as a father and husband.
Jackie completed her high school education under challenging circumstances, demonstrating resilience that would characterize her life and work. Her legacy continues through the impactful initiatives of the Bezos Family Foundation, which remains committed to enhancing educational opportunities for children and young adults.
**FAQ**
**What was Jackie Bezos known for?**
Jackie Bezos was known for being a strong advocate for early childhood education and for her role as the first investor in Amazon, as well as for her philanthropic efforts through the Bezos Family Foundation.