Michael Jackson's mother, Katherine Jackson, smiles in a rare public outing with La Toya ahead of 96th birthday

Katherine Jackson, the steadfast matriarch of the Jackson family, stepped into the public eye for a touching moment that warmed hearts everywhere. In a time when the family often keeps private, this rare outing felt like a quiet celebration of faith and togetherness, especially with Katherine’s birthday just around the corner. Nearly 96, she joined her daughter La Toya Jackson at a church service, their smiles lighting up a simple Instagram video shared on March 10, 2026. La Toya Jackson, 69, posted the clip of her mother beaming beside her, both dressed up for the occasion. La Toya wore a sharp all-black Coach outfit that turned heads. She captioned it with pure affection: “This lady will 96 May th. A soul thatates love, An inspiration us all!” Katherine Jackson has long instilled gratitude in her children, from the late Michael Jackson to Janet Jackson and La Toya herself. Mother to Rebbie Jackson, 75, Jackie Jackson, 74, Jermaine Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Randy Jackson, 64, Janet Jackson, 59, and the late Tito Jackson, she shared life with the late Joe Jackson. La Toya has always been vocal about her love, posting last year on Katherine’s birthday: “expression of and kindness always deeply! We all love you, Mother!”After Michael Jackson passed away in 2009 at age 50, he left his children, Prince Jackson, Paris Jackson, and Bigi Jackson, 24, in Katherine’s care. In a 2010 Dateline interview, she opened up about their bond. Katherine said, “Not a day goes by that I don’t think about my son. It really has been hard. But with friends, loved ones, and family around me, I’m doing okay, especially with prayer.” Katherine Jackson has stepped back from the spotlight in recent years, letting her legacy speak through her family. This church's appearance reminded fans of her enduring strength, the quiet force behind music legends. Grandkids carry on the name Michael’s kids have grown into their own paths while honoring their roots.In March 2024, Prince Jackson, Paris Jackson, and Bigi Jackson hit the red carpet for the MJ: The Musical premiere. They gathered again at the Michael Jackson Diamond Birthday Celebration in Vegas. In August 2022, they glammed up for the Harold and Carole Pump Foundation Gala in Beverly Hills. Prince and Paris Jackson shared a YouTube video in 2021. Prince posted about Siggy Jackson’s wedding: “It was an honor to be a part of @officialsiggyjackson’s wedding with my sis @parisjackson.” They showed playful sides on Instagram that summer. Back in 2012, the three arrived hand-in-hand at Michael Jackson The Imm Tour in Los Angeles. They took part in a hand and footprint ceremony at Mann’s Theater on January 26, 2012, and met the press for “G’ Back Indiana: You Feel” in Gary. These moments keep the Jackson spirit alive, blending public glimpses with private devotion.