Jon Bon Jovi is mourning a devastating loss.
His mom Carol Bongiovi—an entrepreneur who also served as the founder of her son’s fan club for his rock band in the 80s—died on July 9, the musician confirmed in statement to People. She was 83.
“Our mother was a force to be reckoned with,” the 62-year-old shared on behalf of his family, “her spirit and can-do attitude shaped this family. She will be greatly missed.”
According to the publication, Carol passed away at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, N.J., just three days before her 84th birthday. Her cause of death has not been shared.
The Pennsylvania native—who also shares sons Anthony and Matthew with her husband of 64 years, John Bongiovi, Sr.—was a businesswoman and also enlisted in the U.S. Marines, meeting her future husband while serving.
Her son Jon previously praised his parents as the guiding force behind the rocker’s career, sharing that they helped shape who she is as a “man and a father.”
