Brad Pitt is mourning the passing of his mother, Jane Pitt, who died on August 5, 2025, in Springfield, Missouri, just days before her 85th birthday and shortly before her 63rd wedding anniversary. The actor’s public tribute to Jane during a June screening of his film F1 marked one of his last public acknowledgments of her, underscoring the close bond they shared.
During an interview with TODAY show anchor Savannah Guthrie, Brad sent a touching message to his mother, who was known to watch the morning program faithfully. His brief yet affectionate greeting captured the attention of many viewers.
On-Air Tribute Highlights Brad Pitt’s Devotion to His Mother
In the interview, Brad Pitt waved and blew a kiss toward the camera as he said,
“I gotta say hi to my mom because she watches you every morning,”
followed by,
“To Jane Pitt. Love you, Mom,”
moments that resonated with fans online. Supporters praised his heartfelt gesture, with one commenting,
“Heartwarming. Thank you Brad for sharing this,”
while another admired his enduring excitement to make his mother smile, saying,
“I love that at his age, he still gets excited about making his mom smile. So cute.”
Viewers also reflected on Brad’s well-known connection with Jane, referring to him as a devoted “momma‘s boy” and reminiscing about the times he brought her as his date to red carpet events, demonstrating their longstanding relationship.
Jane Pitt’s Life, Legacy, and Lasting Influence
Jane Pitt, born Jane Etta on August 13, 1940, in Memphis, Tennessee, grew up in Joplin alongside her siblings Sam and Ruthie. After enrolling at Oklahoma Baptist University, a fateful meeting in the campus library led her to William Alvin “Bill” Pitt, whom she married on August 11, 1962. Their marriage lasted over six decades, centered around Springfield, Missouri, where they raised Brad and his siblings, Doug and Julie.
Jane spent much of her career in education, beginning as an elementary school teacher before rejoining the Springfield Public School System. She was notably involved as one of the original educators in the Parents as Teachers program, supporting families through key moments in early childhood development. Her compassion extended beyond the classroom through extensive volunteer work at the Pregnancy Care Center in Springfield.
Aside from teaching, Jane was a passionate painter whose creative spirit created special memories with her grandchildren, allowing her to bond with them through art. Her influence was deeply felt not only by her immediate family but also by the wider community, including the neighborhood of Korah in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where some of her grandchildren were born and where her family maintains a meaningful connection.
Family Tributes Reflect Jane’s Enduring Warmth and Love
Following Jane’s passing, Brad’s niece Sydney shared a heartfelt tribute, describing Jane as a person who loved unconditionally and taught kindness, creativity, and joy to her 14 grandchildren. Sydney recalled the cherished “special day” tradition Jane maintained, where she spent one-on-one time with each grandchild filled with fun activities like banana splits for breakfast, crafts, games, and late-night movies.
Sydney remembered Jane’s boundless energy and affection, stating,
“She could keep up with all 14 of us grandkids without missing a beat. There was no limit to the love she gave, and everyone who met her felt it,”
and added,
“She was love in its purest form.”
Jane is survived by her husband Bill Pitt, their three children, grandchildren, and a legacy deeply rooted in education, faith, service, and artistic expression.
Brad Pitt’s Reflection on His Mother’s True Nature
More than a decade ago, Brad Pitt provided insight into Jane’s character during a 2012 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, addressing misconceptions about her public image. He said,
“She’s very, very loving — very open, genuine, and it’s hilarious because she always gets painted in the tabloids as a she-devil. There’s not an ounce of malice in her. She wants everyone to be happy.”
This description highlights the warmth and generosity that defined Jane far beyond any media portrayal.
As the family and community reflect on Jane’s life after her death, her influence remains anchored in the genuine love she shared, the teachings she passed on, and the resilient spirit she embodied throughout her 84 years.
A Legacy That Lives On Through Family and Community
Jane Pitt’s life and values continue to inspire her children and grandchildren, who carry forward her dedication to creativity, faith, and service. Her role as an educator and volunteer marks a lasting contribution to the Springfield area, while her family’s connections to places like Ethiopia accentuate her global impact.
Brad Pitt mourning his mother Jane represents not only the loss of a beloved parent but also a tribute to a woman whose life was rich in love, guidance, and strength. As fans and family commemorate her, her memory remains a powerful reminder of the intimate bonds that shape individuals far beyond the spotlight.
