Jon Bon Jovi paid a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, Carol Bongiovi, who passed away on Tuesday, July 9, just days before her 84th birthday. The Bon Jovi frontman, 62, shared the news of her passing with a touching statement, emphasizing the profound impact she had on their family. “Our mother was a force to be reckoned with, her spirit and can-do attitude shaped this family. She will be greatly missed,” Bon Jovi said.
Carol Bongiovi, born Carol Sharkey in Erie, Pennsylvania, was a woman of many talents and roles. She enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1959, where she met her future husband, John Francis Bongiovi Sr., a fellow Marine veteran and barber. The couple moved to Sayreville, New Jersey, after their military service, where they raised their family before eventually settling in Holmdel, New Jersey.
Carol’s influence on her son Jon’s life and career was significant. She was a former Playboy playmate and a florist who ran her son’s fan club for many years. She bought Jon his first guitar when he was just seven years old, nurturing his early interest in music. Her support and encouragement were instrumental in Jon’s journey to becoming a rock icon.
In a 2020 interview with The Big Issue, Jon Bon Jovi reflected on the invaluable lessons he learned from his parents. He credited them with instilling in him the confidence to pursue his dreams, even when his early performances were less than stellar. “What I got from my parents was the ability to make the dream reality. They always instilled that confidence in their kids which, in retrospect, I realize was so incredibly valuable,” he said. “Because even if you truly weren’t any good at your craft, if you believed you were, you could work on it.”
Carol’s legacy extends beyond her role as a supportive mother. She made a cameo appearance, along with her husband, in Jon’s 2021 “Story of Love” music video. The video features Jon strumming an acoustic guitar in front of a wall of family photos, including a prominent black-and-white portrait of his parents. The song’s lyrics poignantly capture the essence of familial love: “Father love daughters like mothers love sons. They’ve been writing our story before there was one. From the day you arrive, ’til you walk, ’til you run, there is nothing but pride, there is nothing but love.”
Carol’s life was marked by her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to her family. She ran several businesses, including a flower shop in Woodbridge, New Jersey, where she also managed the Bon Jovi fan club. Her multifaceted career and vibrant personality left a lasting impression on those who knew her.
In a 2007 interview with The Telegraph, Jon Bon Jovi spoke fondly of his childhood and the stability his parents provided. “It was your typical 1960s-1970s kinda upbringing. I really admire that my parents stayed together; they toughed it out, the good and the bad,” he said. This sense of resilience and commitment undoubtedly influenced Jon’s own approach to life and career.
Carol Bongiovi’s passing is a significant loss for the Bon Jovi family and the many fans who affectionately referred to her as “Mom Jovi.” Her contributions to her son’s success and her unwavering support will be remembered and cherished. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, their three sons—Jon, Anthony, and Matthew—and their daughters-in-law, as well as eight grandchildren.
Jon Bon Jovi’s tribute to his mother on social media further highlighted the deep bond they shared. He posted a snippet from the “Story of Love” music video on Instagram, accompanied by a heartfelt message: “Momma, We carry you with us Always ❤️❤️.” The video, filled with intimate home videos and family photos, serves as a touching reminder of Carol’s enduring presence in their lives.
As the Bon Jovi family mourns the loss of their beloved matriarch, they also celebrate the remarkable life she led and the indelible mark she left on their hearts. Carol Bongiovi’s legacy of love, strength, and unwavering support will continue to inspire and guide them in the years to come.
Source: Billboard, People, The Big Issue, The Telegraph
