Carol Bongiovi, known affectionately as “Mom Jovi,” passed away on Tuesday at the age of 83, just three days shy of her 84th birthday. She died at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, New Jersey, with no cause of death specified.
In a heartfelt statement, Jon Bon Jovi shared, “Our mother was a force to be reckoned with; her spirit and can-do attitude shaped this family. She will be greatly missed.” Carol was a pivotal figure in her family and the Bon Jovi band lore, also making a notable appearance in the 2021 music video for Story of Love, alongside her husband, John Bongiovi, Sr.
Founding the Bon Jovi Fan Club
Carol’s significant influence extended to the band’s fan base, as she founded the Bon Jovi fan club. Her active involvement made her a beloved figure among fans, earning her the nickname “Mom Jovi.” Her dedication to her son’s musical career and her genuine engagement with fans created a unique bond within the Bon Jovi community. In a 2020 interview with the Big Issue, Bon Jovi reflected on his upbringing, saying, “What I got from my parents was the ability to make the dream reality. They truly believed in the John Kennedy mantra of going to the moon. ‘Yeah, of course you can go to the moon. Just go, Johnny.’ And there I went.” This testament to his parents’ support highlights Carol’s role in instilling confidence and ambition in her children.
A Unique Background: Marine Corps and Playboy Bunny
One of the remarkable aspects of Carol Bongiovi’s life was her diverse background. Not only did she and her husband serve in the Marine Corps, but Carol was also one of the first Playboy bunnies. Her multifaceted life also included a career as a florist before her military service. These diverse experiences contributed to her unique and vibrant personality, which she brought into every aspect of her life. Her son Jon Bon Jovi shared the unique story of his parents’ meeting in the Marine Corps in the 1950s, highlighting the extraordinary combination of military and entertainment history that defined his mother’s life. Few rock stars can claim such an eclectic family history, making Carol’s story particularly intriguing to fans and admirers of the band.
Early Life and Encouragement of Jon’s Talent
Carol Sharkey was born and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania. After being discharged from the Marines, she and her husband moved to Sayreville, New Jersey, where their son Jon Bon Jovi was born in 1962. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter for the family, setting the stage for Jon’s eventual rise to fame. Carol played a crucial role in nurturing her son’s musical talents. Laura Jackson’s biography of Jon Bon Jovi mentions how Carol would line up with Jon before a full-length mirror, enjoying performances together. She encouraged him to learn the guitar at a young age, planting the seeds for his future career. Her unwavering support and encouragement were pivotal in Jon’s development as a musician, underscoring her influence on his success.
Family Legacy and Private Funeral Services
Carol Bongiovi’s legacy extends beyond her immediate family. She is survived by her husband, John Bongiovi, Sr., her musician son Jon Bon Jovi, his wife, Dorothea Bongiovi, and two more sons, Anthony and Matthew, along with their spouses and eight grandchildren. This extended family, spread across different parts of the country, continues to uphold the values and spirit that Carol embodied throughout her life. Funeral services for Carol Bongiovi will be private. Holmdel Funeral Home, responsible for the arrangements, has set up a tribute page for condolences!
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