heartbreaking tribute

Vanessa Bryant mourns heartbreaking family loss as Kardashians rally around her

Vanessa has largely kept her grandmother out of the public spotlight

JULY 31, 2026 7:31 PM EDTJUL 31, 2026, 7:31 PM EDT

Vanessa Bryant is mourning the loss of one of the most important women in her life. The philanthropist shared a heartbreaking Instagram tribute announcing the death of her beloved grandmother, affectionately known as "Mami Tonia."

Vanessa Bryant shared a heartfelt tribute to her beloved grandmother, affectionately known as "Mami Tonia," following her passing.

Alongside the announcement, Vanessa posted a touching throwback photograph of herself embracing and kissing her grandmother on the cheek.

"I love you, Mami Tonia. We are going to miss you so much," Vanessa wrote in Spanish. She continued with a heartfelt blessing, "May God be with you, may the little angels watch over you, and may your angels never leave your side," before signing the message, "Antonia - Mami Tonia."

Vanessa Bryant has maintained a longtime friendship with members of the Kardashian-Jenner family, who rallied around her following her heartbreaking family loss.

The emotional post quickly filled with messages of love and support from friends, fellow celebrities and fans. Among the first to reach out were members of the Kardashian-Jenner family, who have maintained a close friendship with Vanessa over the years.

Khloé Kardashian commented, "I love you V! I am so so sorry for your loss." Kris Jenner also offered her condolences, writing, "I'm so sorry Vanessa I'm praying for you and the girls and your family God Bless you."

Vanessa Bryant and Kobe Bryant attended Khloé Kardashian and Lamar Odom's wedding in 2009, reflecting the longtime friendship between the Bryant and Kardashian families.

Fashion entrepreneur Kimora Lee Simmons added, "Love to you Vanessa! Our Condolences to you and the kids and family." Actor Carlos Eric Lopez was also among those expressing his sympathy, writing, "Sending you and your family all my love ."

While Vanessa has largely kept her grandmother out of the public spotlight, she has occasionally shared personal family moments over the years, making it clear that Mami Tonia held a special place in her life.

You may also likeContinue reading

Family has remained at the center of Vanessa's world, especially after the unimaginable loss of her husband, NBA legend Kobe Bryant, and their daughter Gianna in the 2020 helicopter crash.

In the years since, Vanessa has continued to honor Kobe and Gianna through heartfelt social media tributes, charitable work with the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation, and her devotion to raising their daughters Natalia, Bianka and Capri.

Vanessa Bryant and Kim Kardashian have maintained a close friendship over the years, frequently supporting each other at charitable events and personal milestones.

Friends including Kim Kardashian, Kris Jenner and other members of their close circle have frequently shown their support during those emotional milestones as well.

Although Vanessa did not reveal additional details about her grandmother's passing, the overwhelming response to her tribute reflected the love surrounding her family as they navigate yet another deeply personal loss.

The Kardashians have long supported Vanessa Bryant

The messages from Khloé and Kris reflect a friendship that has spanned years. The Kardashian-Jenner family has remained one of Vanessa Bryant's most visible sources of support, frequently reaching out publicly on birthdays, anniversaries and other emotional milestones.

Vanessa Bryant joined Khloé Kardashian in celebrating her birthday, reflecting the close friendship the pair have shared for years.

Kim has also maintained a close relationship with Vanessa over the years.

Vanessa Bryant, daughter Natalia Bryant and members of the Kardashian family have remained close over the years, frequently supporting one another at celebrations and charitable events.

In 2022, Kim and her daughter, North West, joined Vanessa and Natalia Bryant courtside at a Los Angeles Lakers game, while members of the Kardashian-Jenner family have attended events benefiting the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation, which Vanessa established to continue Kobe and Gianna's legacy.

Although the families largely keep their friendship private, they have consistently shown up for one another during life's biggest moments.