Kris Jenner's sister Karen Houghton passes away at the age of 65

Kris Jenner took to Instagram on March 19th to pay tribute to her younger sister, Karen Houghton, who passed suddenly the previous day. She was 65 years old and was a devastating loss for the family.

Karen was the second daughter of Mary Jo "MJ" Houghton and her ex-husband, Robert Houghton. Both Karen and her sister were raised in San Diego after their parents' divorce in 1962 and then relocated to Los Angeles.

Kris uploaded a carousel filled with photos of her sister from years past, including ones with the late Robert Kardashian and Kourtney Kardashian Barker. The momager described Karen as the "sweetest and kindest" and was "beautiful inside and out." Karen's death was also a potent reminder of how short life is and never taking it for granted.

Karen was also a loving mother to her daughter Natalie Zettel, whom she shared with her ex-husband, Mark Zettel. Natalie is a model and owns Styles by Nat, a clothing rental company.

For the most part, Kris and Karen had a good relationship despite the fact that the latter caused a few bumps in their journey. When Kim Kardashian hosted her 2013 baby shower before the arrival of her daughter, North West, Karen spoke to TMZ reporters, revealing details of the party after signing an NDA. The event caused a ridge between her and Kris, with the latter ceasing communication.

"Unfortunately, my sister [Karen] has been dealing with demons for years," Kris opened up to the outlet, Rader Online in 2013. "I am not in touch with her. But I wish her the very best."

Since the incident, Kris and Karen moved on from it, reuniting in 2019 for a Christmas snap with their mother, Kendall Jenner, and Kylie Jenner.

At this time, it's unclear what was the cause of Karen's death, but the San Diego County of Public Health is ruling it as "natural causes."