Remembering Karen Houghton, Kris Jenner’s sister who died unexpectedly: she stayed out of the Kardashian-Jenner reality TV spotlight and the sisters’ relationship was close – but not always cordial

Mar 21 , 2024

Who is Karen Houghton, Kris Jenner’s sister who suddenly passed away? Photo: @krisjenner/Instagram

Karen Houghton, unlike the rest of the Kardashian-Jenners, stayed away from the cameras; Kris Jenner posted a moving tribute to her after her passing, as did Houghton’s daughter, Natalie Zettel

The sisters had their ups and downs, with Houghton accusing Jenner of being ‘vain’ at one point and throwing shade at Kim Kardashian during her baby shower in 2013

The Kardashian-Jenner family is mourning the loss of Karen Houghton, Kris Jenner’s younger sister, who passed away unexpectedly this week at 65.

“Dear Mommy, I can’t believe you’re gone,” wrote Karen Houghton’s daughter on Instagram. Photo: @nataliezettel/Instagram

Jenner shared the heartfelt news on Instagram, accompanying her tribute with old photos that show the special times they had together. Houghton led a life away from the glare and glamour associated with the Kardashian name, opting for a more private life.

“It is with the heaviest heart and deepest sadness that I share that my sister Karen passed away yesterday unexpectedly,” wrote Kris Jenner of her sister on Instagram. Photo: @krisjenner/Instagram

Despite the ups and downs in their relationship, Jenner’s post highlights the strong love and bond they shared, celebrating Houghton’s life.

So what do we know about her?

Karen Houghton chose a life away from the cameras

Following the passing of her sister, Kris Jenner shared a montage of old photographs of Karen Houghton (pictured). Photo: @krisjenner/Instagram

Houghton chose a path far removed from the cameras, favouring a quieter life. Following a career as a flight attendant, Houghton then worked as a part-time nurse and also published two cookbooks, per British media.

“Karen was beautiful inside and out. She was the sweetest, kindest, the most sensitive and vulnerable and so, so funny,” Kris Jenner wrote on social media about her late sister. Photo: @krisjenner/Instagram

Karen Houghton and Kris Jenner’s complicated relationship

Kris Jenner and Karen Houghton did not always have the best relationship. Photo: @krisjenner/Instagram