Brad Pitt, one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors, recently paid a heartfelt tribute to his mother, Jane Etta Pitt, just weeks before her passing at the age of 84.

The touching moment was captured during a June episode of the popular morning show Today, where Pitt openly expressed his love and admiration for his mother, who was watching the show from home.

This public display of affection offers a poignant glimpse into the private life of a star often shielded from the spotlight when it comes to family matters.

Jane Etta Pitt, a retired school counselor and former elementary school teacher, was born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1940.

She met her future husband, William Alvin Pitt, Brad Pitt’s father, at Oklahoma Baptist University.

The couple married in 1962 and raised three children—Brad, Doug, and Julie—in Springfield, Missouri.

Over the years, Jane and William showed unwavering support for their son Brad’s career, frequently attending red carpet events and premieres alongside him.

Their presence at Hollywood events symbolized not just parental pride but a close-knit family bond that remained strong despite the pressures of fame.

In the Today show episode, Brad Pitt turned to anchor Savannah Guthrie and said with a warm smile, “I’ve got to say hi to my mom because she watches you every morning.

” He then waved to the camera and blew a kiss, adding, “To Jane Pitt.

Love you, Mom.

” This simple yet profound gesture captured the deep affection and respect Pitt held for his mother.

It was a reminder that behind the glamour and fame, there is a son who cherishes the woman who helped shape him.

Jane’s influence on Brad Pitt extended beyond her role as a mother.

According to an obituary obtained by the Springfield News-Leader, Jane was a woman of strong values and kindness.

She cared deeply for everyone around her and was known for her generous heart.

Her granddaughter Sydney, Brad’s niece, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media following Jane’s death, describing her as a woman with the biggest heart who taught her how to paint, be strong, lead with kindness, and find joy in the smallest things.

Sydney’s words paint a picture of a grandmother who was not only loving but also a guiding light and a source of inspiration to her family.

Jane’s legacy is also reflected in her involvement with the community and her outspoken nature.

In 2012, she made headlines when she penned an op-ed urging Christians to vote for Mitt Romney in the presidential election.

Despite the political stance, Brad Pitt described his mother as “very, very loving” and “very open, genuine,” emphasizing that there was “not an ounce of malice in her.

” He found it “hilarious” that tabloids sometimes portrayed her as a “she-devil,” a characterization far removed from the warmth and kindness she embodied.

The Pitt family’s close ties were evident in their public appearances.

In 2014, both Jane and William attended the premiere of Unbroken, a film directed by Brad Pitt’s then-wife Angelina Jolie.

These moments underscored the family’s support for Brad’s professional endeavors and their involvement in his life despite the challenges that fame can bring.

Tragically, Jane’s death marks a significant loss for the Pitt family.

She passed away surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind her husband William, her three children, and 14 grandchildren.

Her granddaughter Sydney’s tribute highlighted the profound impact Jane had on her family, describing her as “love in its purest form” and expressing the difficulty of moving forward without her.

Sydney’s words capture the universal experience of grief and the enduring presence of a loved one’s spirit in everyday moments.

Brad Pitt’s own family life has been complex in recent years.

He shares six children with Angelina Jolie, including three adopted children.

However, since a highly publicized and explosive fight on their private jet in 2016, which led to Jolie filing for divorce, Pitt has been estranged from his children.

This estrangement has reportedly been a source of heartbreak for his parents as well, who have not seen their grandchildren for several years.

The family’s pain is a stark contrast to the public’s perception of celebrity life, reminding us that even the most famous families face profound personal struggles.

Despite the challenges, Brad Pitt’s tribute to his mother reveals the enduring power of family love and connection.

His gesture on the Today show was more than just a public shoutout; it was a testament to the bond between a mother and her son, a bond that remains unbroken even in the face of loss.

It is a reminder that behind every public figure is a private story of love, loss, and resilience.

Jane Etta Pitt’s life was marked by dedication to her family, her faith, and her community.

Her role as a mother and grandmother was central to her identity, and her influence extended far beyond her immediate family.

Through her kindness, creativity, and strength, she left a lasting imprint on those who knew her.

Her legacy lives on in the lessons she imparted and the love she gave so freely.

As the Pitt family mourns the loss of Jane, they also celebrate a life well-lived.

Her story is one of love, support, and unwavering commitment, values that continue to inspire her children and grandchildren.

Brad Pitt’s public tribute serves as a touching reminder of the importance of honoring those who shape us, even amidst the demands of fame and public life.

In the end, Jane Etta Pitt’s passing is not just the loss of a beloved mother and grandmother but the closing of a chapter that was rich with love, laughter, and lasting memories.

Her spirit endures in the hearts of her family and the countless lives she touched.

Brad Pitt’s heartfelt words and gestures ensure that her memory will continue to shine brightly, a beacon of love and kindness in a world that often forgets the quiet strength of those who stand behind the stars.

Through this tribute, we are reminded that no matter how far-reaching fame may be, the bonds of family remain the most profound and enduring connection of all.

Jane Etta Pitt’s legacy is a testament to that truth, inspiring us to cherish our loved ones and to express our affection openly, for life is fleeting, but love is eternal.