Kris Jenner’s younger sister, Karen Houghton, has passed away. Houghton’s death was reported to San Diego County officials in San Marcos, California, on March 18.
While the cause of her death remains undetermined, officials currently attribute Houghton’s passing to natural causes. At 65 years old, Houghton was Kris’ only sibling. She leaves behind a daughter named Natalie Zettel, whom she shared with her ex-husband Mark Zettel.
On March 19, Kris shared a heartfelt tribute to Houghton in an Instagram post, expressing her deep sadness. Kris wrote, “It is with the heaviest heart and deepest sadness that I share that my sister Karen passed away yesterday unexpectedly. My heart aches for my mom MJ [Houghton] and my niece Natalie, and I pray that God guides us all through this difficult time. Karen was beautiful inside and out. She was the sweetest, kindest, the most sensitive and vulnerable, and so so funny.”
“She always expressed gratitude and appreciation for her life, cherishing her family, friends, and especially her beloved daughter. She occupies a significant place in my heart, and I hold dear every precious memory we shared.”
“Karen’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of expressing love to those we hold dear. My dear sister, I love you dearly.”
Despite belonging to a globally renowned family, Houghton maintained a relatively low profile, particularly due to a complicated relationship with Jenner in the past. However, in 2019, the sisters reconciled, exemplified by a holiday photo featuring Kendall and Kylie Jenner.
Karen had not been seen with the Kardashian-Jenner family in recent times, preferring to maintain a private life as a nurse before her passing. Houghton is survived by her daughter, mother, nieces, and nephews, and is preceded in death by her and Kris’ father, Robert Houghton.