Former Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora shared an emotional message with his fans following the recent passing of his mother, Joan Sambora, just days before her 90th birthday, as reported on X (formerly Twitter).
The heartfelt statement expressed gratitude to fans who showed support during this difficult time for Sambora and his daughter Ava.
“Hi everyone, on behalf of Ava and I, we’re sending out a Wave of immense gratitude for your kindness, love, your prayers, and support,” Sambora said. “We felt every bit of it. It kept us standing, as our knee’s were buckling in sadness.”
The musician continued to acknowledge the impact of his fans’ support during the grieving process.
“The good vibrations were strong,” he continued. “Sometimes feeling’s are beyond words.”
The loss has been particularly devastating for the Sambora family, given the timing and circumstances surrounding Joan’s passing.
AOL reported that Joan Sambora died peacefully at her New Jersey home on January 11, 2026, at age 89—just four days before what would have been her milestone 90th birthday on January 15. Born Joan Sienila in 1936, she had been looking forward to celebrating this significant birthday with her family.
The guitarist had been his mother’s primary caregiver and support system since his father Adam’s death from lung cancer in 2007. Entertainment Now noted that Sambora often rushed from California or Hawaii to care for her around the clock in her New Jersey basement. He hired 24/7 medical teams to ensure she received the best possible care.
The close bond between mother and son was evident in how Sambora prioritized her care over the years, frequently traveling across the country to be by her side. This dedication reflected the strong family values that had shaped the musician throughout his career and personal life.
The outpouring of support from fans has been overwhelming, with many sharing their condolences and memories. Fan accounts like Sambora Nation echoed the sentiment with touching tributes, stating “No one rocked harder than Mama Sambora! RIP Joan Sambora,” highlighting the affection the music community had for the guitarist’s beloved mother.
