7 Things to Know About Mama Joyce

From previous tragedy to new love, all about Kandi's mom's past.

By Sarv Kreindler Jan 12, 2014, 8:00 PM ET

We're not sure any matriarch in Housewives history has garnered as much attention as Kandi Burruss' Mama Joyce. But before there was the ubiquitous #MamaJoyce hashtag, the Atlanta spitfire was already living a vibrant and fascinating life. Here are 7 things you might not have known about her.

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1. Kandi is not Joyce's only child.
Joyce's eldest, son Patrick, tragically died in a car crash at the age of 22 (when Kandi was 15).

2. She comes from a huge family.
She's the youngest of 14 children.

3. She's a working girl.
Joyce has held posts as a telecommunications professional, but retired when she had to undergo spinal surgery.

4. Kandi is not her meal ticket.
"Anybody that knows me knows that I’ve always had my own money," she recently told Ebony. "I’ve been on disability, Social Security, and plus I have rental property."

5. She's an inspiring mother.
Kandi credits her mom with helping her build her career and fortunes, which is why she recently told Andy Cohen "She made sure I was good growing up; I'm going to make sure she's good [now]."

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6. She's got a love life, too!
Just because Joyce seems extra concerned about her daughter's romantic interests, it doesn't mean she can't focus on her own. Kandi recently revealed that her mom is dating a mystery man.

7. She's a muse.
Joyce's strong personality inspires art. Kandi's relationship with her mom is at the center of her new musical, A Mother's Love.