The hip-hop world and Eminem’s global fanbase continue to grieve the loss of Betty Kresin (also known as Betty Kresin-Hillsman or Betty Hixson in some family records), the maternal grandmother of Marshall Mathers III (Eminem). She passed away on March 10, 2026, at the age of 87 at her home in St. Joseph, Missouri, due to complications from breast cancer. This marks yet another profound family tragedy for the rapper, coming just over a year after the death of his mother, Debbie Nelson, in December 2024 from advanced lung cancer.

The headline phrase circulating in viral posts—”SHE WAS MY ROOTS BEFORE THE WORLD KNEW MY NAME”—captures the sentiment many fans are attributing to Eminem’s feelings toward his grandmother. While no verified public statement from Eminem includes this exact wording (as of mid-March 2026), it resonates deeply with his history of drawing from family roots in his music. Eminem has rarely spoken publicly about Betty in recent years, but older interviews and family accounts describe her as a foundational figure in his early life—someone who provided stability amid the chaos of his upbringing in Detroit and Missouri. She reportedly carried photos of her famous grandson proudly in later years, evolving from initial skepticism about his provocative style to becoming one of his biggest supporters.

Reliable sources, including TMZ (which first reported the news), the Detroit Free Press, and her official obituary from Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, confirm the details: Betty was born Betty J. Hixson on August 18, 1938, in Highland, Kansas, to Jessie Mae (Roesch) and William Hixson Jr. She raised a family that included daughter Debbie Nelson (Eminem’s mother) and later remarried, becoming Betty Kresin-Hillsman. Survived by her husband, three children, 13 grandchildren (with Eminem listed as her eldest), numerous great-grandchildren, siblings, and extended family, her obituary poignantly notes she has been “reunited in Heaven” with predeceased loved ones, including Debbie, sons Todd Nelson Sr. and Ronnie Polkingharn, grandson Todd Nelson Jr., and others.

The relationship between Eminem and Betty was complex, much like many in his family circle. In the early 2000s, during the height of his fame with albums like The Marshall Mathers LP, Betty publicly criticized his lyrics as “vile and disgusting” in interviews (e.g., with The Mirror), struggling to reconcile the provocative Slim Shady persona with the boy she remembered from childhood. Despite strains—often tied to broader family tensions Eminem has explored in tracks addressing abandonment, resentment, and reconciliation—reports suggest warmth persisted. Some fan-shared anecdotes claim she became deeply proud of his success, carrying his pictures and defending his achievements.

Eminem has not issued a direct public tribute or statement on his verified social media or through representatives as of the latest reports. Sources close to the family told TMZ he was not present at the time of her passing, adding a layer of private sorrow. This silence aligns with his approach to personal grief—he’s kept much of his family matters out of the spotlight in recent years, focusing instead on sobriety, fatherhood, and music amid his ongoing career resurgence.

Fans worldwide have filled social media with condolences, prayers, and reflections on how family has shaped Eminem’s artistry. Posts on platforms like X, Instagram, and Facebook reference the “roots” theme, with many speculating whether this loss might inspire deeply personal new music—perhaps a track or verse addressing legacy, loss, and the women who grounded him before fame. Hashtags like #RIPBettyKresin and messages of support for “the rap legend facing one of the darkest moments” trend in hip-hop communities, with tributes highlighting her 87 years of life and the emotional chord this strikes for a man whose story has always intertwined personal pain with triumph.

Funeral arrangements included a public visitation from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on March 18, 2026, at Meierhoffer Funeral Home in St. Joseph, followed by services and a livestream on March 19, with entombment at Memorial Park Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the American Cancer Society—poignant choices given the cancer battles that claimed both Betty and Debbie.

This passing closes another chapter in Eminem’s real-life narrative, one that’s fueled some of the most raw, introspective rap ever recorded. From humble Midwestern beginnings to global icon status, family—messy, loving, painful—remains at the core. While the world wonders about words said “behind closed doors,” the quiet tribute appears to be in the privacy he maintains, honoring someone who was there “before the world knew [his] name.” Rest in peace, Betty Kresin. The fans—and perhaps the music—will carry her memory forward. 💔🙏