Ariana Grande is mourning the loss of one of her greatest inspirations—her beloved grandmother, Marjorie “Nonna” Grande—who passed away peacefully at home at the age of 99, surrounded by loved ones.
In a statement shared by the Grande family on Tuesday, they wrote:
“We are devastated to share that the beloved matriarch of our family has passed away. Marjorie (Nonna) Grande passed peacefully in her home and was surrounded by her family and loved ones for every moment of her last few weeks. We thank you for your love, support, and for respecting our privacy as we grieve and celebrate her beautiful, extraordinary life.”
More Than Just Ariana Grande’s Grandma
To the public, Nonna was a wholesome presence in the background of Ariana Grande’s glittering pop career—always supportive, often hilarious, and occasionally iconic. To Ariana, she was an emotional anchor and multigenerational role model. And to fans, she became something of a legend in her own right.
In 2023, at age 98, Nonna made Billboard history when she appeared on the closing track of Eternal Sunshine, Ariana’s sixth studio album. Her voice—soft, reflective, and full of warmth—closed out “Ordinary Things” with a message about love and longevity that left listeners in tears. That appearance made her the oldest person ever to feature on a Hot 100-charting single.
But that wasn’t her only cameo in Ariana’s discography. She also appears on Daydreamin’ from Yours Truly and bloodline from thank u, next, with moments that blended charm, humor, and intergenerational love.
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A Tribute Across the Timeline
Shortly after news of her passing broke, the phrase “Rest in Peace Nonna” began trending across platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok. Fans are already posting compilations of her past appearances, from behind-the-scenes videos to her adorable Grammy shoutouts.
“She wasn’t just Nonna to Ari,” one user wrote. “She was Nonna to all of us.”
Grande has yet to share a personal message beyond the family’s joint statement, but if her past tributes are any indication, it’s likely she’ll honor her Nonna in the way she knows best—through art, memory, and music.
“Ordinary Things,” Extraordinary Legacy
In her final recorded words on Eternal Sunshine, Nonna reflected on love with this poignant line:
“Never go to bed without kissin’ goodnight. That’s the worst thing to do—don’t ever, ever do that.”
It was the kind of wisdom that resonated with fans across generations. And now, in her absence, those words feel like a final gift—simple, timeless, and impossibly tender.
Marjorie “Nonna” Grande may have entered pop culture through the side door, but she left an indelible mark. In a world of flashing lights and fast fame, she reminded us what really matters: love, family, and showing up for one another.
And for that, we’ll never forget her.
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