Kandi Burruss has revealed that her aunt Bertha Jones, a fan-favorite from “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
Burruss, 49, shared the difficult news during a live stream on Amazon Live on Wednesday. Speaking candidly, the Grammy-winning artist and reality star said her family is facing emotional challenges as they navigate the diagnosis.
“We’re having a really hard time because my Aunt Bertha has Alzheimer’s,” Burruss said. “So, you know, trying to manage that.” She added that discussing the situation publicly wasn’t easy, noting, “It’s a time.”
Burruss also acknowledged the emotional toll the illness has taken on her and her family. “If anyone’s ever dealt with somebody in your family going through that, and it gets worse, it’s not easy,” she said. “It’s sad and makes you emotional.”
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that impacts memory, cognitive abilities, and behavior. It is the most common form of dementia and worsens over time, making daily tasks increasingly difficult. According to the Mayo Clinic, the condition is irreversible and currently has no cure.
Member of ‘Old Lady Gang’
Jones, who has long been a part of Burruss’s public life, is one-third of the trio affectionately known as the “Old Lady Gang,” which also includes Burruss’s mother, Mama Joyce Jones, and aunt Nora Wilcox.
The group gained popularity through their appearances on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” and later starred in the Bravo spinoff “Kandi & the Gang,” which chronicled life at the family’s Atlanta-based soul food restaurant.
Old Lady Gang, which Burruss and her husband Todd Tucker opened in 2017, is named in honor of the three women. Per Bravo, the restaurant features several family recipes, including Aunt Bertha’s signature fried chicken. Burruss has spoken in past interviews about the influential role her aunts played in her upbringing, often crediting them with teaching her life skills and kitchen wisdom.
“These are not your typical old ladies,” Burruss said in a “Kandi & the Gang,” confessional, describing the trio as outspoken and brutally honest. Aunt Bertha, in particular, became known for her sass, humor, and no-nonsense attitude—traits that endeared her to fans.
While the Alzheimer’s diagnosis marks a difficult chapter for the Burruss family, Burruss expressed gratitude for her aunts’ continued presence and impact. Despite the challenges, she remains committed to honoring them through both family and business.
While Burruss has not shared additional details about her aunt’s condition or treatment plan, she made it clear that the family is focused on supporting her during this time.
